The Somaliland Institute of Agriculture Research (SIAR): Leading Agricultural Innovation for a Food-Secure Future

[Deeq A.]

Since its founding in January 2021, the Somaliland Institute of Agriculture Research (SIAR) has steadily grown into a key player in the country’s agricultural transformation. With a mission to improve food security, boost productivity, and promote sustainable farming, SIAR continues to lead the charge in modernising agriculture across the region.
In its first-quarter report for 2025, SIAR outlines promising advancements, bold initiatives, and the ongoing challenges shaping its work from January through March

Advancing Crop Research and Climate Resilience
One of SIAR’s standout accomplishments this quarter is the introduction and testing of drought-resistant, high-yielding crop varieties. Thanks to partnerships with global research centers like ICRISAT and CIMMYT, Somaliland has received:
• 25 chickpea and 28 groundnut varieties suited for semi-arid climates
• 150 wheat varieties currently awaiting import permits
Once these varieties are brought into the country, they will undergo rigorous trials from July to October 2025 to identify which perform best under local conditions.
Looking ahead to 2026, SIAR plans to expand its trials to include dryland rice and tomato varieties, with support from the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and the World Vegetable Center.
Promoting Sustainable Farming Techniques
SIAR is also introducing ZAI pits, a sustainable planting method that improves water retention and boosts soil fertility. These permanent planting pits are already showing early signs of increasing crop productivity in drought-prone areas.
In partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and Development (MOAD), SIAR is rolling out a seed multiplication program to make improved varieties of sorghum, pigeonpea, and pearl millet more widely available. Ministry staff are receiving training in modern planting techniques to help scale this initiative across the country.
Improving Soil Health and Fertility
A new Soil Amendment Programme aims to tackle one of Somaliland’s core agricultural challenges: poor soil fertility. Since most farmers rarely use manure or chemical fertilisers, SIAR will test different soil treatments—including manure, compost, biochar, and DAP/MAP fertilisers—to determine which yields the best results.
To support this and future research, SIAR is in the process of establishing a Soil Science Laboratory. While the lab has received initial equipment, full setup is pending the arrival of a qualified technician.
Exploring the Role of Moringa in Crop Growth
In a unique study, SIAR will assess whether Moringa oleifera—a tree known for its nutritional and medicinal properties—has any negative impact on neighboring vegetable crops. The study, carried out in partnership with the University of Toronto and the Ministry of Environment, will involve six common vegetables: tomato, hot pepper, sweet pepper, onion, cabbage, and lettuce.
Fodder for the Future
Livestock farming is vital to Somaliland’s rural economy, but droughts and poor-quality fodder remain persistent problems. To address this, SIAR has launched a fodder evaluation programme focused on introducing and testing drought-tolerant forage species. The goal is to identify species that not only survive Somaliland’s harsh conditions but also provide high nutritional value for animals.
Building Stronger Global Partnerships
SIAR’s collaborative efforts go far beyond borders. In addition to working with ICRISAT, IRRI, and CIMMYT, the Institute is:
• Preparing for the import of mineral-enriched maize varieties for 2026
• Partnering with the World Vegetable Center to introduce tomatoes for multiple uses (cooking, salad, and processing)
• Strengthening engagement with farmers and MOAD extension agents to ensure smooth technology transfer and adoption of new practices
Reviving Research Facilities
The Aburin Research and Extension Centre, revitalized in 2016, remains a cornerstone of SIAR’s research. In early 2025, Aburin successfully completed trials on sorghum, cowpea, pigeonpea, and pearl millet, identifying several promising varieties tailored for Somaliland’s arid climate.

Challenges on the Road to Progress
While SIAR has made strong strides, several challenges persist:
• Limited funding continues to delay research activities and equipment procurement.
• Staffing shortages, especially for technical roles like lab technicians, hinder progress.
• Permit delays for importing new crop varieties slow down planting and trials.
• Low farmer awareness and limited adoption of fertiliser and modern techniques pose barriers to scaling innovations.
• Infrastructural limitations at research centers constrain the size and scope of trials.
Despite these hurdles, SIAR remains committed to finding solutions and is actively seeking international collaboration and funding to support its mission.
Gaining Global Recognition
In April 2025, SIAR participated in the CGIAR Science Week in Nairobi, Kenya—an international platform that brought together top researchers, policy-makers, and institutions to address global agricultural challenges. SIAR’s participation helped strengthen its international visibility and foster new partnerships.
Conclusion
The first quarter of 2025 marks a period of meaningful progress for SIAR. With an unwavering focus on innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, the Institute is laying a solid foundation for a more food-secure and climate-resilient Somaliland.
As SIAR continues its journey, its efforts offer hope not just for farmers but for the future of agriculture across the Horn of Africa.

By Abdirahman Ibrahim Abdilahi

Qaran News