Mayor Abdikarim Ahmed Mooge of Hargeisa, the capital of the Republic of Somaliland, has concluded a productive working visit to the United Kingdom, highlighting growing municipal cooperation between Hargeisa and Bristol.
During his stay in Bristol, Mayor Mooge was warmly welcomed by Tony Dyer, Mayor and Leader of Bristol City Council. The visit focused on knowledge exchange, best practices in local governance, and potential partnerships to foster sustainable urban development.
In a statement expressing gratitude, Mayor Mooge praised the Bristol team for sharing expertise in key areas including international relations, economic development, public health, and waste management. He underscored the vital role of city-to-city collaborations in building a better world through mutual learning and joint initiatives.
Special recognition was given to Councillor Hibaaq Jama (Alderwoman), a long-serving member of Bristol City Council with Somaliland roots, who extended the invitation and played a key role in facilitating the visit. The delegation’s trip centered on capacity building, experience-sharing, and laying the groundwork for strengthened ties between the two cities.
Discussions and follow-up meetings are expected to continue, aiming to deepen the emerging partnership between Hargeisa and Bristol in areas of mutual interest such as urban planning and community development.
This engagement forms part of Mayor Mooge’s broader international outreach efforts, following a recent successful visit to Sweden focused on similar municipal links with the Jönköping region.
