Somaliland Ready To Combat Piracy

- The break-away state of Somaliland purchased speed boats in an effort to secure its waters and stem piracy and Illegal fishing. Somaliland’s minister for fishing, Abdulahi Jama Geeljire handed over the new speed boats to staff of the ministry during a ceremony today. The transfer ceremony was held in Berbera- Sahil region and presided over by Minister Abdulahi Jama Geeljire who addressed the public and explained the aims of purchasing these speed boats.

“I am glad to be here today and would like to inform you that we purchased these two speed boats. We need to maintain the security of our seas and fight against illegal fishing vessels including piracy. These two speed boats should help our staff within the ministry,” he said. The speed boats were purchased by the Somaliland government.

“These speed boats were purchased by the government in an effort to secure our sea. Soon we shall purchase more. We intend to give priority to developing the fishing, livestock and agriculture sectors this year. 30% of government income will be spent on these ministries,” added Mr Geljire.

Regional officials from Sahil, led by the Deputy Governor of Sahil, Khadar Ali Elmi, and other staff members also attended the ceremony. Local fishermen in Somaliland welcomed the news and the government’s effort to ensure security,

“We appreciate and welcome these efforts, we also encourage our government to keep it up and hope to get more speed boats soon,” said Abdi Ali, local fishermen in Berbera.

Fish Marketing

Meanwhile Somaliland’s officials from the Ministry of Fishing also announced that they are seeking new markets for Somaliland fish produce. The Minister for Fishing informed local officials and fishermen in Berbera.

“As you know, I went to China to establish positive trade ties and new markets for our fish products. I was there one month and I was working to get a market for our produce,” said the minister.

Piracy is now an issue of great concern for all Somalia administrations and governments including the International community. Somaliland finally joins in the fray to stem this dangerous and costly enterprise.

This article was posted by Neptune Maritime Security with the kind permission of SomaliaReport.com. MaritimeSecurity.Asia in cooperation with www.neptunemaritimesecurity.com