Press Release – For Immediate Release
Mogadishu, Somalia, October 1, 2024– The Federal Government of Somalia signed a landmark $68.5 million Development Assistance Grant Agreement with the United States today in a ceremony held in Mogadishu. The agreement was signed by the Minister of Planning, Investment, and Economic Development, H.E. Mohamud Abdirahman Sheikh Farah (Beene-Beene), the Minister of Finance H.E. Bihi Iman Egeh, and the USAID Somalia Mission Director Ms. Catie Lott.
The agreement emphasizes Somalia’s commitment to advancing socio-economic development through strategic partnerships. It will address critical areas such as economic growth, governance reforms, health, education, and the empowerment of women and youth, supporting Somalia’s long-term vision 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.”
Today’s 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.
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