The Somaliland Institute of Agricultural Research (SIAR) marked a major milestone today with a formal handover and welcoming ceremony held at the Emperial Hotel in Hargeisa. Organized by the SIAR team and moderated by Mr. Abdiqadir Mohamed Ismail, the event celebrated the official transition of leadership at the Institute.
In attendance were members of the newly appointed SIAR Board of Directors, recently established by the President of Somaliland, H.E. Mr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi. The board comprises key stakeholders, including the Minister of Agricultural Development, Hon. Mohamed Yusuf Ege, who serves as Chairman; Executive Director Prof. Ahmed Ismail, who serves as Deputy Chairman; and Deputy Executive Director Mr. Khalid Mohamud Jama, who acts as Secretary to the Board. The board also includes the Deans of the Faculties of Agriculture from the University of Hargeisa, Burao University, and Amoud University as board members.
The event drew a broad array of distinguished guests, including ministers, deputy ministers, director generals, and prominent representatives from across the agricultural sector. The. well-coordinated ceremony underscored the significance of the moment and the widespread support for SIAR’s new leadership.
Speakers urged the newly appointed leaders—Mr. Ali Ismail as Executive Director and Mr. Khalid Mohamud Jama as Deputy Executive Director—to lead with vision, integrity, and a strong spirit of collaboration. They highlighted the importance of close coordination with academic institutions, the Ministry of Agricultural Development, and other key stakeholders to achieve progress in the sector.
SIAR staff and researchers extended a warm welcome to the new leadership, expressing a sense of renewed optimism and purpose. The appointments come at a crucial juncture for Somaliland’s agricultural development, with high hopes that the new leadership will bring strategic direction, fresh momentum, and impactful change to the Institute.
Special congratulations were extended to the entire SIAR Board, particularly to the Chairman, Hon. Mohamed Yusuf Ege, for his pivotal role in strengthening the Institute. Recognition was also given to Executive Director Prof. Ali Ismail, serving as Deputy Chairman, and Deputy Executive Director Mr. Khalid Mohamud Jama
who also serves as Board Secretary, alongside the board members representing Somaliland’s key universities. Gratitude was expressed to all honored guests who attended and lent their support to the occasion.
There is growing confidence that, with a committed ministerial lead and a capable executive team, SIAR is on the path to revitalization. Continued investment in budgetary support, institutional development, and strategic partnerships—both regional and international—will be essential for the Institute’s long-term success.
To fully realize its potential, SIAR will require strong coordination with the Ministry of Agricultural Development and active collaboration among board members and stakeholders. With shared vision and unity of purpose, the Institute can evolve into a leading agricultural research center in the region.
The professionalism and dedication of SIAR’s staff remain among its greatest strengths. Their technical knowledge and commitment will play a critical role in supporting farmers, researchers, and agricultural actors—particularly in fostering innovation, sustainability, and modern farming practices.
A strong and effective research institution like SIAR holds the potential to transform Somaliland’s agricultural sector—enhancing productivity, resilience, and sustainability. With capable leadership, sufficient resources, and meaningful partnerships, this vision is well within reach.
