on 4th-8th July 2024, at Berbera, Allore Hotel
Fisheries play a crucial role in the economies of many developing countries, providing essential sources of protein, employment, and income. However, to fully harness the potential of the fisheries sector, stringent quality control measures are imperative. Quality control in fisheries ensures the safety, sustainability, and marketability of fish products, thereby enhancing food security, fostering economic growth, and promoting public health.

In Somaliland, fisheries face a multitude of challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, limited access to advanced technologies, and insufficient regulatory frameworks. These issues often lead to substandard handling, processing, and storage practices, resulting in significant post-harvest losses and health risks to consumers. Additionally, the global market’s increasing demand for high-quality and sustainably sourced fish products necessitates adherence to rigorous international standards.

In regards of that context, FAO was intervened to these challenges under RAAISE project, The RAAISE project is a component of the wider program called ‘ILED’’ which has been entrusted to FAO by EU for its implementation through different partners and stakeholders. In this context, upon signature of the agreement, HEFO began implementation of Assessing and Improving Somaliland Fish Quality Control infrastructure in relation to capacity in producing fish products meeting international markets requirements, and it was to support to Implementation of the Resilient Fisheries Value Chain for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth-RAAISE project in Berbera Somaliland. The aim was to support HEFO in assessing and enhancing Somaliland’s fish quality control infrastructure to ensure the production of fish products meets international market standards and requirements. The ultimate goal was to improve the quality control measures in place to ensure that Somaliland’s fish products adhere to international market requirements, thus enhancing the competitiveness of Somaliland’s fish industry in global markets.

During the implementation of the project activities under the agreement of LoA#033/2024, HEFO has completed the activity “Training in Sanatory and Phytosanitary Measures in Fishery System in Somaliland” the project staff has successfully organized this training starting from the preparation of the training manuals, training terms of reference, venue arrangements and other necessary logistics.