Aburriin, Somaliland — November 20
The Somaliland Institute of Agricultural Research (SIAR) hosted a well-attended Farmers’ Field Day on Wednesday at the Aburriin Research and Training Farm (ACRET), showcasing a new generation of climate-resilient crops and livestock fodder aimed at strengthening food security in the region.
Senior officials from several government ministries—led by the Ministry of Agricultural Development—joined representatives of international partner organizations to observe SIAR’s latest research outcomes. Local farmers from Aburriin, the primary beneficiaries of the program, took part in field demonstrations and discussions on crop performance.
Farmers expressed optimism about the newly introduced crop varieties, noting their resilience to drought, pests, and common plant diseases. Many of the crops on display are also early-maturing, a critical advantage in Somaliland’s increasingly unpredictable climate.
SIAR presented a diverse range of crops, including sweet potatoes, pigeon peas, sweet corn, improved sorghum varieties, and pearl millet. These crops are part of ongoing trials to identify varieties best suited to Somaliland’s semi-arid conditions.
In addition to food crops, SIAR unveiled advanced fodder varieties designed to improve livestock nutrition—a cornerstone of Somaliland’s rural economy. Demonstrated fodder types included Napier grass, Lablab, Blue Panic, thornless fodder species, and other high-yield varieties that have undergone rigorous testing.
According to SIAR officials, the institute is expanding its research agenda to address some of the country’s most pressing environmental and agricultural challenges. Current priorities include crop improvement, livestock feed development, climate-change adaptation, and surface water resource studies.
“Our goal is to generate practical, home-grown solutions that respond directly to the challenges facing Somaliland’s farmers,” said Khalid Mohamud Jama-Cawl of SIAR.
The event highlighted growing momentum within Somaliland’s agricultural sector, as researchers and farmers work together to build more resilient food systems amid climate pressures.
