Berbera, Somaliland – Abdul Rafay Afzal, Editor-in-Chief of The Advocate Post and President of the Civil Society Network Youth Pakistan, held a high-delegation meeting with Saeed Hassan, Director General of the Somaliland Ports Authority (SPA), at the Berbera Port. During the exclusive engagement, Hassan guided Afzal and international media representatives through the port’s operations, showcasing its transformation into a modern maritime hub.
Berbera Port: From Traditional to International Gateway
In an interview with The Advocate Post, DG Saeed Hassan revealed that the port now handles over 4 million cargo units annually, a dramatic leap from its pre-DP World era as a traditional port. “Today, Berbera is a competitive international port with the potential to become a key trade hub for the Horn of Africa**,” he stated.
Hassan emphasized Berbera’s strategic advantages:
– Prime Location: Proximity to the Bab al-Mandab strait ensures safe, efficient shipping routes.
– Security & Stability: “Since Somaliland’s establishment, our maritime borders have remained free from illegal activities,” he noted.
– Open for Business: The port actively seeks global partnerships, offering modern infrastructure** and streamlined logistics.
A Vision for Regional Leadership
While details of further discussions remain confidential, Hassan affirmed Berbera’s readiness to boost regional trade and attract investments. The port’s growth aligns with Somaliland’s broader economic ambitions, leveraging its autonomy and stability to compete with neighboring ports.
Why It Matters:
– Berbera’s expansion underlines Somaliland’s de facto sovereignty and economic potential.
– Partnerships like DP World’s $442 million investment (2017) have modernized operations, tripling capacity.
– The port’s success could reshape East Africa’s trade dynamics, offering an alternative to Djibouti.
Next Steps:
The Advocate Post will release a full interview with DG Saeed Hassan, delving deeper into Berbera’s future projects and Somaliland’s maritime strategy.
