First Official Somaliland Delegation Visits Israel to Advance Water Cooperation

A historic step in Israel-Somaliland relations unfolded this week as the first official Somaliland delegation arrived in Israel. The visit marks a new chapter following Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as an independent state from Somalia in December 2025.

For both nations, the moment is more than symbolic. It is a practical partnership built on innovation, shared challenges, and forward-looking cooperation.

The Somaliland delegation came with a clear mission: to establish professional ties and explore how Israeli water technology and agricultural expertise can help address urgent development needs back home. At the heart of the visit was a tour of Israel’s world-renowned water infrastructure.

One of the delegation’s key stops was the National Center for Water Education and Innovation at the Shafdan wastewater treatment complex in Rishon LeZion. This advanced facility serves as a hub for cutting-edge research, hands-on training, and collaboration between academics, engineers, and start-ups.

There, the Somaliland officials were introduced to Israeli solutions in wastewater recycling, climate adaptation, and energy-efficient water management. Laboratories, training rooms, and co-working spaces showcased how Israel transforms wastewater into a valuable national resource.

For Somaliland, a nation of approximately 6.2 million people in the Horn of Africa, these innovations are not theoretical they are essential.

The country faces significant water management challenges. Drinking water shortages are common. Droughts strike frequently. Many communities rely heavily on groundwater, while advanced monitoring systems remain limited. Municipal networks suffer from substantial water losses, further straining already scarce supplies.

Leading the delegation was Aden Abdullah Abdullah, Director General of the Somaliland Water Ministry. He was joined by Chief Engineer Omar Ahmed Ibrahim and other senior officials from both the Water Ministry and the Foreign Affairs Ministry. Their presence signaled Somaliland’s commitment to building long-term professional cooperation with Israel.

Israel’s water technology story is one of determination and ingenuity. From its early years, the Jewish state faced severe water scarcity. Through bold planning, scientific research, and national resolve, Israel developed one of the most advanced water economies in the world.

Today, Israel recycles the vast majority of its wastewater for agricultural use. It operates sophisticated desalination plants and advanced systems for monitoring and managing water resources. These innovations have allowed Israel not only to overcome its own shortages but also to become a global leader in water technology.

For Somaliland, the visit offered an opportunity to see these systems up close. Discussions included potential cooperation in brackish water desalination, improved monitoring of water sources, and modernizing municipal infrastructure to reduce water loss.

Professional training programs were also on the agenda. By equipping Somaliland engineers and decision-makers with Israeli expertise, both countries hope to create sustainable, locally driven solutions tailored to Somaliland’s unique climate and geography.

This partnership highlights a powerful dimension of Israel’s global engagement. Beyond diplomacy and trade, Israel shares practical knowledge that improves lives. From Africa to Asia, Israeli water technology has helped nations manage scarcity, strengthen food security, and build more stable economies.

The arrival of the first official Somaliland delegation in Israel is therefore more than a diplomatic milestone. It represents the meeting of two nations determined to shape their futures through cooperation and innovation.

In a region where drought and water insecurity can fuel instability, collaboration rooted in science and shared experience offers hope. Israel’s recognition of Somaliland opened the door. This visit begins the real work of building something lasting.

Israel continues to demonstrate how creativity, perseverance, and technological excellence can transform even the harshest environmental realities. As new partnerships take shape, the Jewish state once again shows its commitment to sharing knowledge and strengthening nations through cooperation.

Israel stands proud as a global leader in water technology and innovation. Share this story and subscribe to our newsletter to stay connected to Israel’s growing partnerships around the world.