On 21 September 2016 the Hargeysa Cultural Centre (HCC), a partner of the Rift Valley Institute, hosted a networking evening for researchers working within the Somaliland and Puntland regions. The evening brought together more than 100 people to develop further links among researchers and share knowledge, experience and ideas.

The evening was also an opportunity for researchers with varying levels of experience from across three continents to learn more about current research topics within the region—where dissemination of research is a challenge—and connect with the HCC, a platform for discussion that encourages research dissemination.

Dr Jama Musse Jama, Director of the HCC, opened the evening followed by dinner and entertainment in the Centre’s outdoor theatre. Guests were welcomed with an array of traditional Somali dance and music followed by a tour of the facilities. Dr Jama also used the opportunity to inform guests of the upcoming Somali Studies conference that is to be held in 2018. For participants residing outside of Somaliland, the event was an opportunity to learn more about research within the Somali regions and how to best access resources, a challenge for many Somali researchers.

The evening ended with live music in the Centre’s theatre, celebrating both traditional and modern Somali songs.