The Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation (MoFAIC) of the Republic of Somaliland over the weekend convened a one-day consultative meeting at its headquarters in Hargeisa.
The meeting, organized by the Diaspora Department, brought together representatives from various Ministries and Government Departments to discuss the establishment of an Inter-Ministerial Task Force for Diaspora Affairs.
The primary objectives of the meeting were to create a collaborative framework for inter-ministerial coordination on diaspora engagement, identify and streamline stakeholder roles, and address gaps and challenges in delivering services to the diaspora community. Attendees included Directors General and senior officials from multiple Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
Dr. Mohamed Abdirahman Hassan, the Director General of MoFAIC, delivered the opening remarks. He highlighted the critical role of the diaspora in Somaliland’s socioeconomic and political development, emphasizing the need for a whole-of-government approach to effectively engage, integrate, and mobilize diaspora resources for long-term national development goals.
Key speeches were delivered by the Directors General of the Ministries of Planning & National Development, Trade & Tourism, Youth & Sports, and Information, Culture & National Guidance, as well as representatives from the Ministries of Finance & Economic Development, Employment, Social Affairs & Family, Public Works, Land & Housing, and Justice. Additionally, officials from the Immigration Authority and the Hargeisa Municipality Diaspora Service Desk expressed strong support for the initiative, reaffirming their commitment to active participation.
Diaspora engagement is a cross-cutting issue that spans multiple sectors, including the economy, social development, culture, politics, and international cooperation. As such, it requires coordinated efforts across all levels of government, as well as collaboration with the private sector, academia, and civil society.
In alignment with the Foreign Policy Commitments of the New Government led by HE Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi “Irro” (Unity & Action), Somaliland’s National Development Plan III (2023-2027), and the National Vision 2030, MoFAIC has prioritized accelerating diaspora engagement through its “Diaspora Engagement Enabling Program (DEEP Initiative).” Key components of this initiative include the review and development of a national diaspora policy, the establishment of a Somaliland Diaspora Trust Fund (SLDTF), the formation of a National Diaspora Advisory Council, the creation of a diaspora-friendly online portal, and the establishment of a High-level Inter-Ministerial Task Force. This Task Force will comprise representatives from various Ministries and Autonomous Agencies across seven development sectors.
The meeting underscored the Government’s commitment to fostering stronger ties with the diaspora community and leveraging their contributions to achieve Somaliland’s development aspirations.
