By Mohamed Mahamud - Reporter
Bosaso (Dawan Africa) – Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni acknowledged concerns from traders over fees and services at Bosaso Port, but firmly rejected reports the port was closed, saying import and export activities were continuing normally.
The President’s remarks follow reports by some local media in recent days that Bosaso Port and commercial activities in the city had been brought to a standstill amid complaints over fees imposed on ships carrying goods.
President Deni said livestock exports were continuing, fuel shipments were being unloaded, and boats and commercial vessels remained operational.
“Bosaso Port is not closed. Livestock is being exported, fuel is being unloaded, and the boats are still operating,” President Deni said.
He said the closure of a few businesses should not be interpreted as meaning that the port or Puntland’s entire commercial sector had been shut down. He assured the people of Puntland that trade remained open and the port was operational.
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The President also acknowledged that some traders had legitimate complaints over fees, saying the administration was not denying their concerns and was prepared to listen and address the issues they had raised.
Deni said the increased charges were not new taxes imposed on traders, but service fees levied on ships bringing goods through Bosaso Port.
He added that most of the vessels were owned by foreign companies and businesspeople who charge Somali traders for transporting goods from overseas markets.
The Puntland President said the fees were based on services provided by the port and were intended to bring Bosaso Port’s charges in line with those at other ports.
President Deni also said Puntland was preparing for the second phase of Bosaso Port’s expansion, which would increase its size, equipment and operational capacity, enabling it to meet the standards of other modern ports.