By Staff Reporter
HARGEISA — Agriculture is the backbone of Somaliland’s economy, sustaining the livelihoods of most of the country’s population. As climate change intensifies and the need for food security grows ever more urgent, agricultural research is taking center stage in the nation’s development agenda.
At the heart of this transformation is the Somaliland Institute of Agricultural Research (SIAR) — a pioneering institution working to redefine how research serves farmers, communities, and national policy. Established with a vision to empower agriculture through science and innovation, SIAR is led by a dedicated team that has been with the Institute since its inception. Over the years, this team has gained invaluable experience, positioning them to lead the country’s agricultural sector into a more resilient future.
“Agricultural research must go beyond theory—it must deliver practical solutions to those working the land,” said one SIAR team member.
Somaliland Institute of Agricultural Research is aligning its research priorities with Somaliland’s broader development goals, focusing on increasing productivity, enhancing climate resilience, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The Institute is also expanding partnerships with international research organizations, while working to boost internal efficiency and accountability.
“We need to turn research into impact. That means translating findings into tools and knowledge that improve lives on the ground,” the team member added.
With a foundation in both agricultural science and institutional management, the current leadership is driving a new era for SIAR—anchored in innovation, transparency, and results-based action. These efforts aim to ensure that research outputs are not confined to reports and academic papers, but are actively used to inform farming practices, policy decisions, and local development strategies.
SIAR’s ambitions go beyond research for its own sake. The Institute is committed to becoming a key policy advisor and an enabler of homegrown solutions. In doing so, it hopes to support a new generation of farmers equipped to face modern challenges.
“We have a responsibility to not just study agriculture, but to actively contribute to its transformation in Somaliland,” another team member emphasized.
As Somaliland seeks to secure its food future and navigate an increasingly unpredictable climate, Somaliland Institute of Agricultural Research stands ready to lead with science, strengthen local innovation, and provide the evidence-based tools necessary to build a resilient agricultural sector.
By Abdirahman Abdilahi
