The semi-autonomous region of Puntland has rejected a memorandum of understanding signed between Somalia’s federal government and the U.S. state of West Virginia on cooperation in critical minerals, intensifying disputes over control of the Horn of Africa’s natural resources.
In a statement issued March 16, Puntland’s Ministry of Energy, Minerals and Water declared it would not recognize any agreement concerning mineral resources within its territory without prior consultation and explicit consent.
Puntland, which is believed to hold some of Somalia’s most promising mineral deposits, invoked Article 44 of the country’s provisional constitution. That provision requires negotiation and agreement between the federal government and federal member states on the allocation of natural resources.
Puntland officials criticized the deal for excluding the region from discussions, despite its direct implications for local resources. They expressed concerns that the lack of involvement could expose international investors to legal uncertainties and erode confidence in Somalia’s overall investment climate.
“The reported MoU raises serious concerns,” the ministry stated, accusing the federal government of applying inconsistent standards: while member states have faced restrictions on independent agreements, the central administration has proceeded unilaterally.
The memorandum, signed earlier this month in Charleston, West Virginia, establishes a framework for collaboration in mineral exploration, extraction, processing and value addition. Somalia’s Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources signed on behalf of the federal government, with West Virginia officials endorsing the partnership through a state Senate resolution promoting expanded economic ties.
Federal authorities have described the agreement as a step toward positioning Somalia as a supplier of critical minerals essential for renewable energy technologies, electronics and advanced manufacturing. It also includes commitments to technical training and building local processing capabilities.
Puntland officials said the region remains open to responsible international partnerships but insisted any such deals must adhere to constitutional requirements and respect Somalia’s federal structure.
They warned that ignoring these issues could undermine long-term economic development and deter credible foreign investment.
The disagreement highlights persistent strains in Somalia’s federal system, where the division of authority over natural resources continues to fuel tensions between the central government in Mogadishu and member states like Puntland.
