Hargeisa, Somaliland – The Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) has announced the opening of a state-of-the-art Education and Training Centre Complex in Somaliland, marking a major step in the region’s efforts to combat wildlife trafficking and strengthen conservation practices.
Backed by the Royal Commission for AlUla, the new facility is designed to serve as a regional hub for learning and professional development in conservation. It will offer hands-on training programs for students, researchers, and practitioners from Somaliland and the wider Horn of Africa, providing a unique platform for skills development and knowledge exchange.
According to CCF, the complex will also host immersive programs for local communities and international visitors, raising awareness about the threats facing cheetahs and other endangered species. Somaliland has become a critical frontline in the fight against the illegal wildlife trade, with cheetah cubs often trafficked through the region for sale in foreign markets.
Dr. Laurie Marker, founder and executive director of CCF, welcomed the opening as a “milestone in conservation education,” emphasizing that the centre will not only train future wildlife professionals but also deepen community engagement in protecting biodiversity.
The facility adds to Somaliland’s growing reputation as a regional leader in wildlife protection. Local authorities have partnered with international organizations in recent years to strengthen law enforcement and rehabilitation of rescued animals, while also working to address the socio-economic drivers of wildlife trafficking.
The centre’s launch is expected to foster stronger collaboration across the Horn of Africa, enabling cross-border initiatives to safeguard ecosystems and support sustainable livelihoods linked to conservation.