Somalia Breaks Ground on First National Agricultural Research Centre

“Our land is fertile and we have enough water. Somalia can feed itself if we invest properly in agriculture,” he added, noting that the government is prioritising food self-sufficiency as part of its economic strategy.

Barre also urged Somali businesses to shift investment toward local food production.

“There are enormous opportunities in this sector. Somalia sits in a strategic global position, and many countries are ready to invest here — especially in agriculture and livestock,” he said.

Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation Mohamed Abdi Hayir 'Maareeye' said rebuilding national research capacity was essential after decades of institutional collapse.

“Somalia once had strong research institutions before the civil war. Rebuilding this capacity is crucial, because every modern nation bases its food systems on knowledge, research and planning,” he said, adding that the new centre would strengthen the country’s ability to respond to climate change and improve agricultural resilience.

Officials say NARI will conduct research on priority crops, livestock, natural resources and climate adaptation; develop improved seed varieties; manage the national germplasm system; and coordinate research with universities and national institutions.

Authorities describe the project as a major step toward modernising Somalia’s agricultural sector and reducing reliance on food imports.