Today, the Ministry of Agricultural Development and the University of Hargeisa had a critical meeting with the aim of strengthening cooperation between the two entities, with a particular emphasis placed on research, data development, and enhancing national agricultural productivity. The meeting was jointly chaired by the Honorable Minister of Agricultural Development, Hon. Mahmoud Ige Yusuf, and the President of the University of Hargeisa, Dr. Mohamed Ahmed Sulub, among other senior officials from both entities.

The main aim of this critical meeting was to forge a partnership between both entities, with a particular emphasis placed on research and development, data development, and enhancing national agricultural productivity. The priority areas that were discussed during this critical meeting included enhancing agricultural production data, conducting research on the effects of drought and climate change, soil and water management, pest and disease control, and enhancing market-oriented agricultural outputs.

Another critical area that was agreed upon during this meeting was enhancing capacity building, where there will be an emphasis placed on enhancing the capacity and knowledge of staff working in the Ministry. Additionally, students from the University of Hargeisa, particularly those from the Faculty of Agriculture, will be given an opportunity to be part of activities taking place in the Ministry, where they will be able to enhance their capacity and knowledge. This meeting was also keenly noted that this partnership will play a critical role in supporting evidence-based policymaking, which will help in enhancing decision-making, thereby increasing agricultural productivity. The meeting was noted that this was just the beginning of a formal partnership between both entities, and a Memorandum of Understanding will be developed.