Power Monopoly Sparks Backlash in Burao as Government Sends Mixed Signals

Burao, Somaliland – A fresh confusion and controversy has emerged in the ongoing electricity dispute in Burao, as two key Somaliland government bodies have issued conflicting directives regarding which company is legally permitted to provide power to the city.

A letter issued by the Ministry of Interior declared that HECO is the sole authorized electricity provider for Burao. In contrast, a separate statement from the Somaliland Energy Commission confirmed that both HECO and Al Nuur Energy possess valid licenses to operate in the city’s energy sector.

This contradiction has raised serious questions about government coordination and regulatory clarity. Residents and stakeholders are now unsure which authority to follow, as the standoff between the companies still present.

The dispute comes amid mounting public frustration with HECO, which has long enjoyed a monopoly over electricity in Burao. The company is widely criticized for high prices, poor service quality, and a lack of accountability. Residents have reported frequent unannounced blackouts, charges for unused electricity, and even electricity cuts to Burao General Hospital during surgical operations, putting lives at risk.

The emergence of Al Nuur Energy, a new competitor, was welcomed by much of the public. However, tensions escalated when HECO workers allegedly cut power lines installed by Al Nuur, an act widely condemned as sabotage.

In the midst of this growing crisis, the Ministry of Energy and Minerals—which is officially mandated to oversee the sector—has come under fire for its passive and unclear role. Critics say the ministry has failed to provide leadership or resolve the legal confusion, instead leaving critical regulatory decisions to other bodies like the Interior Ministry and the Energy Commission. This lack of decisive action has weakened public trust in the ministry’s ability to manage the energy sector fairly and transparently.

Meanwhile, business owners in Burao say the HECO monopoly has driven many to closure due to unsustainable electricity costs. Al Nuur Energy is viewed by many as a chance to revive local commerce and reduce unemployment—but only if the government ensures a level playing field.

As both HECO and Al Nuur continue their dispute, and as legal uncertainty grows, residents of Burao are calling on Somaliland’s leadership to step in, provide unified policy direction, and ensure that the interests of the public—not private monopolies—are the top priority.