Hargeisa, Somaliland – Abdul Rafay Afzal, Editor in Chief of The Advocate Post, International Journalist, Activist and consultant, recently held a high-level meeting with Mr. Ibrahim Ismail Elmi, Secretary General of the Somaliland Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture (SLCCIA), to discuss expanding trade relations and investment prospects in Somaliland.

Strengthening Economic Ties

During the meeting, Afzal and Elmi engaged in detailed discussions on key sectors driving Somaliland’s economy, including agriculture, livestock, mining, energy, and infrastructure. The talks emphasized the growing potential for international investors and businesses to collaborate with Somaliland’s private sector.

Afzal expressed strong optimism about Somaliland’s business climate, stating:

“Somaliland is a land of untapped opportunities, with a resilient economy and a strategic location for trade. The SLCCIA plays a crucial role in connecting global investors with local enterprises, and I am keen to explore ways to facilitate these partnerships.”

A Look Inside the Chamber

As part of the engagement, Secretary General Elmi provided Afzal with an exclusive tour of the SLCCIA headquarters, sharing insights into the Chamber’s history, mission, and ongoing initiatives to promote economic growth. Elmi highlighted Somaliland’s business-friendly policies and the Chamber’s commitment to fostering international trade relations.

“We are eager to work with global partners like Abdul Rafay Afzal to enhance Somaliland’s economic integration,”

said Elmi.

“Our goal is to position Somaliland as a competitive hub for trade and investment in the Horn of Africa.”

Future Prospects and Collaborations

The meeting also explored potential joint ventures, trade delegations, and investment forums to connect Somaliland’s private sector with foreign businesses. Afzal emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in unlocking Somaliland’s economic potential.

With its strategic ports, growing infrastructure, and abundant natural resources, Somaliland continues to attract interest from investors seeking new markets in East Africa. Afzal’s discussions with SLCCIA mark a significant step toward strengthening Somaliland’s economic outreach.

Next Steps
Following the meeting, Afzal plans to facilitate business linkages between international investors and Somaliland’s key industries, with a focus on sustainable and mutually beneficial partnerships.

“This is just the beginning,”

Afzal remarked.

“Somaliland’s entrepreneurial spirit and economic potential are undeniable, and I look forward to contributing to its growth story.”