Abaarso Tech acts to assist development in Somaliland by creating an intellectual stronghold that attracts top local and international minds. These intellectual leaders will train Somaliland’s most promising youth, provide intensive professional development for teachers and professionals, and indirectly work to serve the especially deprived rural population. At its essence, Abaarso Tech will be an intellectual center that radiates world class education to the rest of Somaliland.

Overview

Somaliland, which unilaterally separated from its 1960 union with southern Somalia in 1991, defines much of the northern half of the Horn of Africa’s coastline. It is a nation of generous, peaceful and historically nomadic, clan people who are striving toward international recognition. Nearly 100 percent of the population is Suni Muslim.Since its separation in 1991, Somaliland has been working to develop stable and high quality political, educational and health care institutions. While tremendous success has happened, a lot of work is still needed to bring these vital structures up to par with other regions of the world. Somaliland is still reeling as a post-conflict society from not only the destroyed buildings and structures, but also the brain drain that occurred when the majority of the country was forced to evacuate to refugee camps or countries abroad for multiple years in the late 1980s and early 90s. Fortunately, Somaliland is also a nation of passionate, motivated individuals who are committed to seeing their beloved country succeed. Hospitals are being built, schools are being strengthened and new businesses are being launched.

Hargeisa

The capital of Somaliland is located in the Western region in the valley of the Galgodon (Ogo) Highlands, roughly two hours from the Ethiopian border. Hargeisa is the political and financial hub for the country, and has an estimated population that is between 600,000 and 2 million. Its high elevation gives Hargeisa and its surrounding area a milder climate despite its close proximity to the Gulf of Aden. Temperatures range between 13 and 32 degree Celsius (55 and 89 degrees Fahrenheit).

Abaarso

The quiet, farming community where the school takes its name is located 18 km outside of Hargeisa. Abaarso (which recently changed its name to Baraaqo but is more commonly known by its previous name) has roughly 1,500 residents and includes a primary school, a women’s organization, small trading posts, and a collection of huts that sell bread, drinks and snacks. Together with the students, the staff of Abaarso Tech is developing programs that will help provide needed services and raise the standard of living for villagers. Ideas currently include routine medical care, an effective waste management system and inexpensive water sourcing, as well as micro-finance and other business opportunities for women.

Tourism and Entertainment

A visible arts scene has been slow to emerge since the war, but the country has a handful of beautiful places located within a few hours’ drive. The port city of Berbera offers beautiful, tourist-free beaches and excellent swimming and scuba diving opportunities; the beautiful mountains surrounding Sheikh provide wonderful hiking areas and stunning scenery. Las Geel, which was discovered in 2003, showcases cave paintings believed to be from 5000 BC to 3000 BC; it is just one of 150+ archaeological sites Somaliland hopes to continue researching in the coming years.

Security

Due to the violence in central and southern Somalia, there is increased security awareness in Somaliland to ensure that peace and stability remain intact here. Checkpoints are common, and all foreigners are required to be accompanied by armed escorts when traveling outside the capital.