Hargeisa – During an official visit to Somaliland, renowned Pakistani international journalist and policy advisor Abdul Rafay Afzal, Editor-in-Chief of The Advocate Post and President of the Youth Civil Society Network Pakistan, met with Hon. Omer Shaub Mohamed, Minister of Livestock & Rural Development, in the capital city, Hargeisa.

The high-level meeting focused on strengthening collaboration in livestock development, rural infrastructure, and sustainable agriculture. The two leaders exchanged perspectives on the current structure and functioning of the Ministry, as well as potential avenues for sector-specific international partnerships.

Mr. Afzal and Minister Omer held a comprehensive dialogue addressing:

• Opportunities for rural economic growth through agricultural innovation

• Institutional capacity building in Somaliland’s livestock sector

• Strategies for optimizing natural resources and addressing rural challenges

• Policy frameworks to promote economic empowerment and inclusive development

Mr. Afzal praised the Minister’s openness to dialogue and his vision for sustainable rural transformation.

“I’m deeply grateful for the warm reception and meaningful conversation. Engaging directly with government leadership allows for deeper insight into local challenges and opportunities — essential for effective international cooperation and policy support,”

he said.

The meeting aligns with Mr. Afzal’s broader mission of supporting governance, diplomacy, and regional development in emerging regions across East Africa. As an international journalist and public policy advisor, he has consistently advocated for global partnerships that uplift underrepresented regions like Somaliland.

This visit marks a significant step in building bridges between civil society leaders and regional governments, fostering cooperation in areas crucial for long-term economic stability and social progress.