Somalia, United States Sign $68.5 Million Development Assistance Agreement

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia and the United States of America have inked a $68.5 million Development Assistance Grant Agreement which will boost the country’s efforts to address critical sectors.

The grant is expected to support the Federal Government of Somalia’s efforts to develop crucial sectors including; economic growth, governance reforms, health, education, and the empowerment of women and youth, supporting Somalia’s long-term vision for resilience and sustainability.

The deal was signed at a function in Mogadishu by Somalia’s Minister of Planning, Investment, and Economic Development Mohamud Abdirahman Sheikh Farah, the Minister of Finance Bihi Iman Egeh, and the USAID Somalia Mission Director Ms. Catie Lott.

 “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,” Minister Farah said.

“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 minister added.

The allocation of $68.5 million in U.S. development assistance will expand Accelerated Basic Education programs, benefiting over 150,000 Somali children, and rehabilitate more than 200 classrooms, 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: building resilience and stability, stimulating economic growth, enhancing governance, and empowering the future leaders, the women, and youth of Somalia,” said Mission Director Lott at the signing ceremony.

This agreement builds on nearly 18 years of U.S. foreign assistance to Somalia, furthering the impact on governance, education, and economic resilience programs.

It aims to foster long-term stability and development for both rural households and urban communities across the country.