Somali Observatory for Humanitarian Affairs It is a specialized, independent, non-profit media network that observes and follows up the Somali humanitarian scene
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HARGEISA — The State of Qatar has donated a sum of $3 million to support drought relief efforts in Somaliland, following a period of failed seasonal rains, as reported by the news website Hiiraan Online.
The donation was officially announced by Somaliland’s Minister of Religious Affairs and Endowments, Abdillahi Dahir Jama Baashe, who expressed gratitude for the Qatari assistance.
Minister Baashe affirmed that the contribution is a “brotherly gesture” and highlighted the deep need for such aid amid the severe humanitarian conditions resulting from the drought.
The donation follows a recent visit by Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro) to Doha, where he held discussions with senior Qatari officials regarding financial and developmental support.
The donation marks a new phase in relations between Somaliland and Qatar, as Doha previously had no formal ties with the self-declared republic. This development follows a period where Somaliland had aligned with the UAE and Saudi Arabia during the 2017 Gulf diplomatic rift. At that time, Somaliland signed an agreement with DP World, a UAE-based port operator, for nearly $500 million in projects, including the development of Berbera Port.
This new alignment with Qatar, a key ally of the Somali federal government, indicates a potential shift in Somaliland’s foreign policy towards closer engagement with diverse regional partners.
Background on Drought in Awdal Region
The drought has had a profound impact on the Awdal region, one of the most affected areas in Somaliland. The failure of the rains has led to a severe water crisis, with many wells running dry and pastoral communities struggling to find water for their livestock and families. The lack of rainfall has decimated grazing lands, leading to the death of a large number of livestock, which are the primary source of livelihood for many residents.
This has created a humanitarian crisis, putting families at risk of food insecurity and malnutrition. The timely Qatari donation is expected to help alleviate some of these pressing needs.
