The Somaliland Mining Code: what investors should know in 2026

Somaliland's mineral framework distinguishes reconnaissance, exploration and mining licences, each with its own area limits, duration and work obligations.

For newcomers, three things matter most. First, ground is held on a first-come basis, so cadastre accuracy and timing are decisive. Second, exploration commitments are real and are checked at renewal. Third, community access is negotiated separately from the licence itself, and should start before you mobilise.

None of this is unusual by regional standards, but the administration is still maturing. Early, direct engagement with the Ministry of Energy and Minerals shortens timelines more than any single document.