Hargeisa, Somaliland – The Somaliland Institute of Agriculture Research (SIAR) has recently made significant strides in strengthening the country’s agricultural capacity through international collaboration. In a promising development, SIAR has received 150 advanced Wheat breeding lines and released varieties from the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT). These lines, previously yield-tested in Mexico and Kenya, are expected to cover a diverse range of growing conditions—from well-irrigated farmlands to regions challenged by heat and drought stress.
However, before these improved Wheat varieties can be fully adopted, SIAR stresses the need for localized testing.
“It’s hard to ascertain which lines fit where unless we test them in Somaliland,” says an official at SIAR. “We are particularly interested in varieties with short growth durations, drought tolerance, and enhanced nutritional value.” Similarly, we have requested enriched maize varieties from CIMMYT—enhanced with essential minerals and adapted for our local environmental conditions.”
Gratitude to ICRISAT for Lifesaving Legume Varieties
SIAR also expressed its sincere appreciation to the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) for its invaluable support. The institute has provided improved varieties of sorghum, pearl millet, and pigeonpea—staple crops critical to food security and farmer livelihoods across Somaliland.
But the support doesn’t stop there. ICRISAT has also contributed 28 improved groundnut varieties and 26 chickpea varieties. These legumes are specially bred to thrive in various dryland environments, which make them a perfect fit for the diverse climatic zones found in Somaliland.
“Groundnut and chickpea are vital crops for small-scale farmers in our region,” SIAR noted. “Their introduction during the 2025–2026 growing season will be a major step forward in boosting farmer income, nutrition, and sustainable agriculture.”
Next Steps: Testing, Permits, and Local Trials
Before these improved seeds can be planted, SIAR is currently in the process of applying for the necessary import permits from the Ministry of Agriculture. Once approved, the seeds will be imported and tested across different agro-ecological zones within Somaliland to determine their adaptability and performance.
The goals of this initiative are ambitious but essential:
• Improve food security
• Enhance nutritional standards
• Boost farmer income
• Support sustainable farming through improved soil fertility
Looking Ahead: Rice Varieties on the Horizon
In addition to collaborations with CIMMYT and ICRISAT, SIAR is also in discussions with the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) to secure improved rice varieties suited for dryland farming conditions—a game-changer in a country where water scarcity presents a major challenge to rice cultivation.
A Vision of Partnership and Progress
SIAR remains optimistic and committed to building long-term partnerships with global agricultural research institutions. The hope is that with continued collaboration, Somaliland can not only achieve greater food security but also lay the foundation for a more resilient and productive farming system.
Warm regards,
Abdirahman Ibrahim Abdilahi
Acting Executive Director
Somaliland Institute of Agriculture Research (SIAR)
