The Somaliland government has revoked the operating license of a major livestock inspection facility in Berbera after accusing its Arab owner of entering into an unauthorized agreement with the Somali federal government, a move seen as a threat to the region’s vital livestock export industry.
The facility, operated by businessman Abu Yaasir, was one of three quarantine centers in Somaliland that inspect livestock before export to major markets, particularly Saudi Arabia. Somaliland’s Minister of Livestock, Omar Shucayb, confirmed the shutdown, saying it was necessary to protect the region’s economic interests.
“After discovering the businessman’s involvement in a deal with Somalia, we decided to shut down the facility,” Shucayb told BBC Somali. He added that Somaliland officials had previously summoned Yaasir to Djibouti, urging him to withdraw from the agreement. “Although he admitted wrongdoing, he refused to reverse the deal, leaving us no option but to revoke the license,” Shucayb said.
Berbera, a key hub for livestock exports, plays an essential role in Somaliland’s economy. Millions of goats, sheep, camels, and cattle are exported annually from the region, with Saudi Arabia being the primary buyer. The port’s quarantine facilities ensure that livestock meet international health standards, making them critical to maintaining Somaliland’s access to lucrative Gulf markets.
The monopoly granted to Abu-Yasir has triggered widespread condemnation from nearly 100 Somali lawmakers, who accused the federal government of jeopardizing a sector that supports 60% of the population and generates $1.07 billion annually. Lawmakers warned that excluding local traders from export markets could lead to job losses, corruption, and long-term economic instability.
Lawmakers have vowed to summon senior government officials, including the Minister of Livestock, for questioning once parliamentary sessions resume. “This is the first time in Somalia’s history that a single individual has been granted such control over a vital economic sector,” said MP Mursal Mohamed Khalif. “The decision endangers our economy and pushes thousands of herders, brokers, and transport workers into financial uncertainty.”
Somaliland officials view the federal government’s decision as part of a broader strategy to undermine the region’s self-declared autonomy, which has been in place since 1991. “This monopoly not only disrupts trade but also infringes on Somaliland’s right to control its economic resources,” said Minister Mohamed.
Abu-Yasir, who has a controversial reputation, has been accused by lawmakers of exploiting local businesses and defrauding Somali traders in the past. His monopoly has also led to a two-week halt in exports at Berbera, leaving herders unable to sell livestock needed to sustain their families.
No immediate response was available from Somalia’s federal government regarding the accusations.