OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT PHOTO RELEASE
© Somaliland National TV (SLTV)
© Somaliland National TV (SLTV)
© Somaliland National TV (SLTV)
© Somaliland National TV (SLTV)
© Somaliland National TV (SLTV)
© Somaliland National TV (SLTV)
Minister Abdirahman Hassan Nur warmly welcomes Dr. Awed Araya and the delegation from East Anglia University at the Ministry of Commerce and Tourism office in Hargeisa. The delegation, led by Dr. Araya, arrived to formalize an agreement to conduct a historical research project on the Islamic heritage and archaeological traces of the ancient city of Saylac, covering the period from the 12th to the 16th century. This collaboration aims to preserve and promote Somaliland's rich historical legacy.
Hargeisa, 11 August 2025 - The Minister of the Ministry of Commerce and Tourism, Mr. Abdirahman Hassan Nur, today warmly received a distinguished delegation from East Anglia University, United Kingdom, led by the esteemed Dr. Awed Araya, at the ministry’s headquarters in Hargeisa.
This important visit was aimed at establishing a collaborative historical research project focusing on the Islamic heritage and archaeological traces found in the ancient port city of Saylac. The research will specifically explore the period between the 12th and 16th centuries, a time when Saylac was a significant center for trade, culture, and Islamic scholarship in the Horn of Africa.
During the meeting, both parties engaged in detailed discussions about the scope, objectives, and methodologies of the planned research. The experts from East Anglia University expressed their commitment to working closely with local authorities and historians to ensure the project contributes meaningfully to the preservation and promotion of Somaliland’s rich cultural heritage.
The session culminated in the signing of a formal agreement, binding the university and the ministry to a shared vision of enhancing historical knowledge, safeguarding ancient relics, and raising awareness of Saylac’s crucial role in Islamic and regional history.
Minister Abdirahman Hassan Nur emphasized the importance of such international partnerships, highlighting how academic collaborations can drive tourism, support education, and strengthen national identity. He expressed his optimism that this project would serve as a catalyst for future initiatives that showcase Somaliland’s unique history on the global stage.
The delegation led by Dr. Awed Araya, a renowned scholar in Islamic history and archaeology, praised the ministry’s support and expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to uncover new insights into Saylac’s past, which holds invaluable lessons for both regional and global communities.
This joint effort marks a significant milestone in Somaliland’s ongoing commitment to preserving its historical sites and promoting sustainable cultural tourism.
