GENERAL DETAILS OF PUNTLAND/SOMALIA

Somalia/Puntland

June 25, 2004

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION: Somalia is a developing country in the Horn of Africa. It has had no government since the onset of civil war in 1991. That year, the northwest part of the country proclaimed itself the Republic of Somaliland, and it now has its own governing authority, although its economy is linked with the rest of the country. However, Somaliland has not received international recognition as an independent state.

The northeastern section of Somalia, which is semi-autonomous, is known as Puntland. Somalia ’s economy was seriously damaged by the civil war and its aftermath, but the private sector is trying to reemerge. Tourism facilities are non-existent. The capital of Somalia is Mogadishu. The principal city of Somaliland is Hargeisa. Other cities and towns of importance include the ports of Bosasso in Puntland, Berbera in Somaliland, and Kismayu in the South, Baidoa, and Garowe.

HAFZA’s COMENTS:

The new government of Somalia is attempting to bring all of the factional fighting to an end.  The population by a huge number are seeking a full democratic and peaceful land.  For HAFZA, it is intended to assist where possible.  The main focus will be on the stability of the free zones and the creation of jobs.  It is believed by upgrading the living standards for the general population throughout the scattered free zones will generally assist in the democracy and stability of Puntland/Somalia.