Tuesday October 1, 2024
Mogadishu (HOL) – Somali government signed a $68.5 million Development Assistance Grant Agreement with the United States on Tuesday, marking a significant step in advancing socio-economic development in the country.
The agreement was signed by Somali Minister of Planning, Investment, and Economic Development, Mohamud Abdirahman Sheikh Farah (Beene-Beene), Finance Minister Bihi Iman Egeh, and USAID Somalia Mission Director Catie Lott during a ceremony in Mogadishu.
The agreement focuses on key areas such as economic growth, governance reforms, health, education, and the empowerment of women and youth, and also supports Somalia's long-term goals for resilience and sustainability.
"This agreement reflects the enduring cooperation between Somalia and the United States, driven by our shared goal of realizing a more resilient, prosperous, and inclusive Somalia," said Minister Mohamud Abdirahman Sheikh Farah (Breene-Beene) at the ceremony. "With this support, we will strengthen critical sectors such as education, governance, and economic development to ensure that our people, especially women and youth, have the tools and opportunities to thrive."
The grant will fund Accelerated Basic Education programs, benefiting over 150,000 Somali children while rehabilitating more than 200 classrooms and providing education access to an additional 10,000 students annually. It will also enhance governance capacity, promote civic engagement, and create economic opportunities for women and youth.
"This grant agreement reflects the heart of U.S.-Somalia collaboration. Our partnership focuses on building resilience and stability, stimulating economic growth, enhancing governance, and empowering the future leaders of Somalia," said Mission Director Lott at the signing ceremony.
The U.S. has been providing foreign assistance to Somalia for nearly 18 years, and this latest agreement further strengthens efforts to promote governance, education, and economic resilience in both rural and urban areas, fostering long-term stability and development across the country.