ISKUSHUBAN, Puntland — September 5, 2026

Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni held a meeting with representatives of different sections of the community in Iskushuban district of Bari region on Saturday evening, as part of his ongoing engagement with local communities and efforts to address security, development and humanitarian concerns across Puntland.

The meeting focused on the overall situation in Iskushuban, with particular attention given to security, the fight against terrorism, drought, environmental protection, agricultural production and the development of the district’s natural resources.

Community representatives also used the meeting to raise concerns over basic public services and infrastructure, highlighting the need for greater investment in health, roads, agriculture and other essential sectors.

President Orders Immediate Hospital Construction

One of the key outcomes of the meeting was President Deni’s directive to the relevant Puntland authorities to begin construction of a hospital in Iskushuban as soon as possible.

The president instructed the responsible institutions to start the work the following day and emphasized the need for the facility to be completed quickly so that residents can access essential healthcare services without having to travel long distances to other towns.

The hospital project is expected to become an important development for the district, particularly for families who currently face challenges accessing medical services.

President Deni’s directive reflects growing calls from communities in remote parts of Puntland for improved access to basic public services, including healthcare, education, clean water and transportation.

Security and Counterterrorism

Security was also a major topic during the meeting.

Iskushuban is located in Bari region, an area of strategic importance to Puntland because of its geographic location, natural resources and proximity to areas affected by security challenges.

The president discussed the importance of strengthening security and continuing efforts to combat terrorism.

Local communities were encouraged to play an active role in maintaining peace and cooperating with security institutions.

Community cooperation is considered particularly important in remote areas, where local residents can help authorities identify security threats and support efforts to prevent militant groups from establishing a presence.

Drought and Environmental Protection

The meeting also addressed the effects of drought and the need to protect the environment.

Drought remains a major challenge for communities whose livelihoods depend on livestock, agriculture and natural resources.

President Deni emphasized the importance of addressing environmental degradation and preventing activities that contribute to the destruction of natural resources.

The issue of environmental protection is particularly important in Puntland, where communities depend heavily on grazing land, forests and other natural resources.

Measures aimed at reducing environmental degradation could help protect livelihoods and strengthen the resilience of communities facing increasingly difficult climatic conditions.

Agriculture and Local Production

Agricultural development was another major issue discussed during the meeting.

President Deni encouraged the development of agricultural projects in Iskushuban and highlighted the potential of the district to increase local production.

The development of agriculture could help improve food security, create employment opportunities and reduce dependence on imported food products.

Local agricultural projects could also provide new economic opportunities for young people and rural communities.

The president further highlighted the importance of developing production related to gums and resins, which are among the natural products associated with Puntland’s economy.

Iskushuban’s Natural Resources and Tourism Potential

President Deni also emphasized the strategic importance of Iskushuban to Puntland because of its natural resources, productive potential and tourism opportunities.

The district has natural landscapes and resources that could provide opportunities for economic development if properly managed and supported by investment.

Tourism was highlighted as an area with significant potential.

President Deni announced that the Puntland Tourism Week will be held in Iskushuban, bringing attention to the district’s tourism potential and creating an opportunity to promote its natural and cultural attractions.

Holding a major tourism event in the district could also help attract visitors, encourage private-sector investment and increase awareness of Iskushuban beyond Bari region.

Infrastructure Development

Infrastructure was another major concern raised during the meeting.

Community members highlighted the need for improved roads and other infrastructure to connect Iskushuban with surrounding communities and major commercial centers.

President Deni encouraged the development of roads and instructed authorities to prioritize projects that could improve transportation and access to markets and public services.

Better roads could have a direct impact on local economic activity by making it easier for farmers, traders and other producers to transport their goods.

Community Engagement

The meeting is part of broader efforts by the Puntland administration to engage directly with local communities and understand their priorities.

Community consultations provide an opportunity for residents to communicate their concerns directly to government leaders while allowing authorities to explain development plans and security priorities.

For Iskushuban residents, the announcement of a new hospital and plans for infrastructure and agricultural development represent potential steps toward improving living conditions in the district.

Looking Ahead

The success of the initiatives announced during the meeting will depend on implementation and continued cooperation between the Puntland government and local communities.

The immediate construction of the district hospital is expected to be one of the most closely watched commitments following the president’s visit.

At the same time, investment in roads, agriculture, environmental protection and tourism could provide longer-term economic benefits for Iskushuban and the wider Bari region.

The planned Puntland Tourism Week could further place Iskushuban in the spotlight and demonstrate the district’s potential as a destination for tourism and investment.

President Deni was accompanied at the meeting by the First Deputy Speaker of the Puntland House of Representatives, Mohamed Baari Shire, along with other officials from Puntland’s various government institutions.

The meeting concluded with renewed emphasis on security, development, public services and the importance of working closely with local communities to advance Iskushuban’s role in Puntland’s economic and social development.