Somalia, US inks $92.6M development deal

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: The Federal Government of Somalia and the United States have inked a Development Objective Assistance Agreement (DOAG)  aimed at boosting Somalia’s development and governance.

The $92.6M deal was signed Tuesday by Somalia’s Planning, Investment and Economic Development minister Mohamud Abdirahman Sheikh Farah, Minister of Finance, Bihi Iman Egeh, and Mr Shane Dixon, Chargé d’Affaires to Somalia on behalf of the US.

“I had the privilege of co-signing this historic DOAG with the Government of the United States. This collaboration aims to build resilience, stimulate our economic growth, and enhance governance,” Minister Sheikh Farah stated.

The US Embassy underscored the importance of the agreement through a tweet: “Honored to stand alongside Minister BeeneBeene & Minister Bihi Egeh to sign an important assistance agreement for $92.6M in USAIDSomalia development funds. This agreement builds upon 17 years of U.S. development assistance to Somalia, our joint vision for resilience, and our shared commitment to a prosperous future.”

The agreement underpins the enduring relationship between Somalia and the United States.

Envisaging a robust, stable, and prosperous Somalia, the DOAG focuses on leveraging common interests between both nations. The funds from this agreement are set to propel developments in key sectors including infrastructure, education, and healthcare.

As Somalia strives towards economic rejuvenation and robust governance, this agreement serves as both an endorsement and an impetus for international collaboration.

The United States has long been a strong partner to Somalia, providing not only humanitarian aid but also military support in the ongoing fight against the Al-shabaab militants.