As part of his official tour of the Sahil region, the Vice President of the Somaliland, Maxamed Cali Aw Cabdi, led a high-level government delegation today on a comprehensive inspection of key infrastructure projects in Berbera, a major coastal city vital to the country’s economic and logistical landscape.
The visit commenced at the National Fuel Reserve Depot, a facility of national importance for energy storage and security. Welcomed by the General Manager, Maxamed Sidiiq Dhamme, the Vice President was briefed on the depot’s operational milestones, current upgrades, and strategic plans aimed at scaling up capacity to meet growing national demand. Dhamme highlighted the depot’s central role in safeguarding the country’s energy supplies and bolstering economic resilience in times of global uncertainty.
Following this, the Vice President inspected the National Fuel Testing Laboratory, where senior technical staff presented the facility’s state-of-the-art fuel analysis systems. These systems are essential for ensuring that all imported and distributed fuel meets stringent national quality standards, thereby enhancing consumer safety and preserving engine and infrastructure reliability across Somaliland.
The delegation then moved to the Berbera Municipal Headquarters. The Vice President evaluated various service delivery departments, where he engaged with municipal staff and assessed the government’s responsiveness to urban challenges. The Mayor of Berbera provided an in-depth overview of ongoing urban development projects, policy reforms, and governance initiatives aimed at elevating the standard of living for city residents.
Addressing the public and media at the conclusion of his engagements, Vice President Maxamed Cali Aw Cabdi delivered a strong message underscoring the government’s unwavering commitment to the uninterrupted provision of essential public services.
He stated, “Water and electricity are not optional conveniences – they are lifelines for our citizens. Speaking with the full authority of the President, I urge those responsible for these services to exercise the highest standards of responsibility. The government will not permit the arbitrary disruption of public utilities, and any such acts will be met with decisive action.”
The day’s activities concluded with a site visit to the Faro Deero Water Expansion Project, a flagship infrastructure initiative nearing completion. Once fully operational, the project will vastly enhance access to clean water for Berbera’s residents, addressing long-standing water supply challenges. Originally launched by the President just one month ago, the project symbolizes the government’s resolve to promote inclusive development and regional equity.
This strategic oversight tour reaffirms Somaliland’s focus on service delivery, energy resilience, and urban development as foundations for sustainable national growth.