Somaliland region is seeing a new five-star hotel in Hargeisa as a good pusher for positive image abroad, even as it also signals prospect for foreign investment ventures.
On Monday, Abdirahman Mohamed Irro, the leader of Somaliland region inaugurated Sarovar Premiere Hotel, becoming the first foreign-branded five-star hotel to set up in the breakaway region.
Irro, who came to power last year, is a former diplomat and knows the value of image pooling. He told an audience at the event that the hotel will help improve the local economy. But it also signals the prevalence of a conducive environment, he argued.
“This project demonstrates the confidence investors have in our governance and stability,” he said.
“It also highlights the role of hospitality in creating jobs, hosting international engagements, and showcasing Somaliland to the world,” he said.
Somaliland has been seeking international endorsement to secede from Somalia in vain. But what has not been lost is the fact that it has managed to steer its local affairs without much of the foreign donor support. Now local leaders see the entry of hotel chains such as Sarovar crucial to sustain its economy.
The new hotel has been put up by Sarovar Hotels, India’s hotel chain, that also owns some 140 hotels in India, Nepal and Africa. They own the Heron in Kenya.
Ajay K Bakaya, the Managing Director for Sarovar Hotels Pvt Ltd said the hotel chain wants to maximize growth opportunities in Africa, by looking in regions that have previously been unexplored.
“This hotel is located in one of the prime locations of Somaliland close to the getaway port of Berbera and has good connectivity from Hargeisa Egal international airport as well for travellers to the country.
“Having successfully operated hotels in other countries of Africa, we now look forward to provide our signature hospitality in this growing country as well”.
For Somaliland, having such investors is both economic boost as it is a publicity pusher.
Irro said Sarovar’s entry signals Somaliland’s readiness to welcome investors to the Horn of Africa.
He said such hotels would can also boost the tourism industry, which has long suffered due to conflict. He added that Somaliland is now prepared to host international conferences, as part of efforts to enhance the overall quality of services available in the country.
Constructed over nine years, the hotel features 134 fully furnished rooms and a wide array of world-class amenities. Its architectural has also become a crucial landmark in Hargeisa.
It is a partnership with local property owner Abdikarim Mohamed who sees good tidings in tourism ahead.
“The launch of Serene Sarovar Premier Hargeisa is not just about a hotel—it is about placing Somaliland on the global tourism and business map.
“We look forward to welcoming guests from across Africa and the Gulf region to experience a truly world-class stay.”
