The Somaliland Ministry of Agriculture, under the leadership of Minister Abdikadir Iman Warsame, has achieved remarkable progress in recent years towards enhancing the agricultural sector in the country. The ministry has implemented various initiatives aimed at improving agricultural productivity, promoting sustainable agriculture practices, and strengthening farmer cooperatives to enhance food security. In a recent statement to the National Media, Hon.
Abdiqadir Iman Warsame called on farmers to take advantage of the good rains that have been falling in the country. He indicated that the ministry is monitoring the weather and rain forecasts in 62 different locations across the country. While the rains have mainly fallen in the western regions in the last three months, the autumn rains have now started in the eastern regions, where drought had previously been a significant issue. The Minister urged farmers to monitor the weather forecasts closely and take advantage of the rains by planting crops and collecting rainwater for irrigation purposes.
One notable achievement of the ministry has been the improvement of the livestock sector, which is the backbone of the country’s economy. To enhance livestock productivity, the ministry has implemented various programs such as disease control measures, livestock breeding programs, and the establishment of veterinary clinics. Additionally, the ministry has promoted the export of livestock and livestock products, which has contributed to the overall economic development of the country.
The promotion of sustainable agriculture practices has also been a focus for the ministry. The ministry has promoted conservation agriculture, agroforestry, and soil and water conservation practices to enhance the agricultural sector. To increase access to water for farmers and pastoralists in the country, the ministry has launched a project involving the rehabilitation of existing water wells and the construction of new ones in areas with low water availability.
The ministry has played a significant role in strengthening farmer cooperatives in Somaliland by providing training and technical assistance on cooperative management and marketing, as well as supporting the establishment of new cooperatives. Additionally, the ministry has made efforts to improve irrigation systems and increase access to water for agricultural purposes, particularly in areas affected by drought.
The ministry’s efforts have led to increased agricultural production in Somaliland, improved food security, and the overall economic development of the country. The ministry has launched several initiatives aimed at achieving these goals, such as distributing seeds and agricultural inputs to farmers in the region, aimed at increasing agricultural productivity and supporting food security.
While the agricultural sector in Somaliland has made significant progress, it still faces several challenges, including droughts, limited irrigation systems, and inadequate infrastructure. The sector’s development in 2022 may depend on government policies, climate change, and external aid. Addressing these challenges will require the collective efforts of the government, development partners, and other stakeholders.
In conclusion, the Somaliland Ministry of Agriculture has made significant strides in recent years toward enhancing the agricultural sector in the country. With the right interventions and investments, the sector has the potential to grow and contribute to poverty reduction and food security in the country. However, addressing the challenges facing the sector will require continued efforts from all stakeholders involved.
Gulaid Yusuf Idaan
@Guiled2
Senior lecturer, Researcher, and Youth Activist in the Horn of Africa
