Hargeisa (Dawan Africa) – A multimillion-dollar agribusiness and water harvesting project in Wajaale has triggered public outcry over the planned relocation of communities and military units currently residing on the land. Dawan Africa has obtained exclusive access to project documents that reveal a long-term lease of 5,800 hectares signed between the Pharo Foundation and the Government of Somaliland—at a rate critics say is unreasonably low and lacks transparency.
Under the agreement, the Pharo Foundation will pay USD 10 per hectare annually, totaling just USD 58,000 per year, and will share 10% of agricultural produce with the government if production begins. In return, the foundation will be allowed to develop dams and irrigated farmland across four phases.
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The documents also show that Pharo will be exempt from all taxes and duties on imported equipment and will have full operational autonomy, including complete control over staffing, land use, and management of the project site.
One of the most contentious issues is the relocation of military personnel and local communities currently living on the land. Although the agreement states that Pharo will assist the government with some relocation costs, no clear resettlement or compensation plan has been publicly disclosed. This has sparked anxiety among residents, many of whom rely on the area for traditional farming and grazing.
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According to the documents reviewed by Dawan Africa, the project was negotiated over 18 months and directly involved the President of Somaliland. However, no public announcement or consultation with local stakeholders took place during that time.
The agreement grants Pharo full independence in executing the project, with oversight assigned to a six-member steering committee—three representatives from the government and three from Pharo. Still, there are no provisions for public, parliamentary, or civil society oversight.
Among those voicing strong opposition is poet and community activist Hassan Dahir “Weedhsame”, who warned of the risks to local identity and social harmony.
“This Pharo project, which the government is backing, poses a serious threat to the very existence of the people whom God placed in that land,” he said. “Any attempt to disinherit the people of Wajaale valley will lead to grave consequences, ones that will endanger both peace and statehood.”
The Ministry of Agriculture and Development has defended the project, framing it as part of a broader strategy to address climate change, water scarcity, and rural poverty. A formal statement is expected in the coming days.
