The Ministry of Minerals and Energy of Somaliland has entered into a cooperation agreement with Emirates Industrial Laboratory, a UAE-based company, to establish modern mineral testing facilities within the region. This move is set to reduce reliance on foreign labs for mineral analysis, which has previously been carried out in countries like India, South Africa, and the UAE.
The agreement was formalized in Dubai, with Mohamed Osman Said, Director-General of Somaliland’s Ministry of Minerals and Energy, representing Somaliland. Emirates Industrial Laboratory will supply and install state-of-the-art equipment, significantly enhancing the region’s capacity for in-house mineral testing.
Said emphasized that the new facility would adhere to global standards, positioning it as one of the most advanced in East Africa. “In the past, we faced delays and high costs when sending mineral samples abroad for testing,” he told BBC Somali service. “This new facility will simplify the process, making testing more accessible and efficient for local miners.”
The project also addresses long-standing safety issues within Somaliland’s mining sector, where lack of proper equipment and training has led to accidents and fatalities. The new laboratory aims to improve safety protocols and provide necessary training for those working in the industry.
Somaliland’s mining sector has faced challenges due to the absence of local testing facilities, which has increased operational costs and discouraged potential investors. This partnership is expected to attract more interest in the sector by lowering costs and expediting the analysis process.
Emirates Industrial Laboratory, which has over 30 years of experience in mineral and oil testing across the Middle East, will bring its expertise to Somaliland. The company also provides environmental assessments and technical support to engineers.