Hargeisa, Somaliland | 7 November 2026
The University of Hargeisa, represented by Dr. Abdirisak Mohamed Abdillahi, Dean of the College of Engineering, Computing and Information Technology (CECIT), participated in the opening ceremony of a four-day Public Consultation and Technical Training Workshop on Electricity Sector Regulations and Guidelines, held on 7 November 2026 at Mansoor Hotel in Hargeisa. The workshop is organized by the Somaliland Energy Regulatory Commission, with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and runs from 7 to 10 November 2026.
The workshop brings together key stakeholders from government institutions, regulatory bodies, the engineering profession, electricity service providers, renewable energy companies, and international development organizations. It provides a platform for consultation, technical discussions, and capacity building aimed at strengthening Somaliland’s electricity sector through clear regulatory frameworks, improved institutional coordination, and effective implementation of sector regulations and guidelines.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Dr. Abdirisak Mohamed Abdillahi emphasized the importance of establishing comprehensive regulations, technical standards, and operational procedures to support the sustainable development of Somaliland’s growing electricity sector. He noted that a well-structured regulatory environment is essential for promoting safety, improving service quality, strengthening accountability, and guiding the activities of electricity providers and other stakeholders.
Dr. Abdirisak further highlighted the importance of meaningful stakeholder engagement throughout the development, review, and implementation of electricity sector regulations. He explained that effective regulation requires more than the preparation of legal and technical documents; it also depends on ensuring that institutions, industry professionals, and service providers have a shared understanding of regulatory requirements and the capacity to apply them in practice.
He also underlined the important contribution of higher education institutions to the development of Somaliland’s energy sector, particularly through the preparation of qualified engineers and technical professionals. In this regard, he highlighted the Electrical and Power Engineering programme at the University of Hargeisa, which equips students with the knowledge and technical competencies required to pursue professional careers in electricity generation, transmission, distribution, and related engineering fields.
Reaffirming the University’s commitment to supporting national development, Dr. Abdirisak expressed the University of Hargeisa’s readiness to strengthen collaboration with the Somaliland Energy Regulatory Commission in areas such as applied research, technical training, professional development, and institutional capacity building. Such collaboration would create opportunities to connect academic knowledge with practical industry needs while contributing to the continuous improvement of technical expertise within the electricity sector.
The workshop was attended by representatives from the Attorney General’s Office, Somaliland Quality Control Commission, Members of Parliament, Engineers Association, electricity utility companies, solar energy companies, international development partners, and practicing engineers. Their participation reflects the importance of coordinated efforts among regulatory authorities, technical institutions, private sector operators, and development partners in addressing the regulatory and operational needs of the electricity industry.
Throughout the four-day programme, participants will engage in public consultation sessions and technical training activities focusing on electricity sector regulations, guidelines, regulatory procedures, and their practical application. The workshop aims to enhance stakeholder understanding, support effective regulatory implementation, and promote greater cooperation among institutions responsible for the development and oversight of Somaliland’s electricity sector.
The University of Hargeisa’s participation reflects its continued commitment to contributing academic expertise, advancing engineering education, and supporting evidence-based approaches to national development. Through its academic programmes, research activities, and engagement with government institutions and industry stakeholders, the University continues to play an important role in developing the professional and technical capacities needed to address Somaliland’s evolving infrastructure and energy challenges.
