How Israel–Somaliland Cooperation Could Transform Food Security in the Horn of Africa

Food security remains one of the foremost challenges in the Horn of Africa. Recurrent droughts, climate variability, political instability, fragile economies, and inadequate agricultural technology have created cycles of hunger and humanitarian crisis across countries such as Somalia, Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Djibouti. Within this regional environment, Somaliland—though not internationally recognized—has unique opportunities to pursue bilateral partnerships that can help improve agricultural productivity, environmental sustainability, and food system resilience. One of the most promising emerging partnerships is between Somaliland and Israel.

Israel, a global leader in agricultural innovation and food security technologies, can offer practical solutions in water management, desert agriculture, irrigation systems, high-yield seeds, and agribusiness development. A strategic cooperation agreement between Israel and Somaliland would not only transform Somaliland’s agricultural sector but could also produce spillover benefits with regional impact advancing food security across the Horn of Africa.

The Food Security Crisis in the Horn of Africa

The Horn of Africa has endured some of the most severe climate-related shocks in recent decades. Drought episodes especially the prolonged dry spells of the 21st century have decimated crops, killed livestock, and left millions dependent on humanitarian assistance. According to FAO and other United Nations assessments, millions remain food insecure, and millions more risk sliding into hunger due to climate stress and conflict.

In Somaliland, the situation is particularly acute. Agriculture and pastoralism are the backbone of the economy, supporting nearly 70% of livelihoods, yet productivity remains low due to poor infrastructure, traditional farming techniques, lack of irrigation facilities, and insufficient access........

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