HARGEISA, Somaliland — Somaliland’s government is tightening security in areas recently hit by clashes while trying to ease rising fuel prices that officials say are driving up the cost of living and putting pressure on the local currency.
The measures were discussed Wednesday during the 73rd meeting of Somaliland’s Cabinet, chaired by President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro.
Security crackdown after recent clashes
Interior and National Security Minister Abdalle Mohamed Arab told the Cabinet that recent clashes in parts of the Awdal and Selel regions were winding down and that authorities were working to restore stability.
But the government is imposing stricter controls on weapons in the affected areas.
Civilians and groups not affiliated with authorized security institutions will be barred from carrying weapons, according to the Cabinet statement. Security forces have been instructed to confiscate weapons and take legal action against those who violate the order.
The government is also pursuing reconciliation and dialogue among communities in the affected regions, officials said.
The developments come as authorities try to prevent renewed violence following recent tensions while restoring confidence among residents and maintaining control of sensitive areas.
Fuel prices put pressure on households
The Cabinet also focused on rising fuel prices and their impact on everyday life.
Commerce and Tourism Minister Abdirahman Hassan Noor said higher petrol prices were affecting the cost of living and contributing to pressure on the Somaliland shilling.
There may be some relief ahead.
The minister said a large supply of petrol had arrived in Somaliland, while diesel shipments were expected to arrive soon. Authorities hope the additional supplies will help bring prices down and stabilize the fuel market.
The government said it was monitoring fuel markets and working with fuel traders to ensure supplies remain available and to prevent price increases that are not justified by market conditions.
Fuel prices have an impact far beyond filling stations. Higher costs can raise transportation expenses and increase the price of goods moved around the country, putting additional pressure on households and businesses.
Education results released
The Cabinet also reviewed the results of Somaliland’s 2026 national examinations for middle and secondary schools, officially released on August 25.
Education Minister Prof. Ismail Ducaale Yusuf said officials had completed the marking, verification and publication process, with the government emphasizing transparency and fairness.
The Cabinet meeting comes at a sensitive moment for Somaliland, with authorities confronting security concerns in some regions while also trying to contain economic pressures affecting consumers.
For the government, stabilizing the affected regions and keeping essential markets supplied will be key to maintaining public confidence in the months ahead.
