The Minister of State for Finance and Economic Development, Hon. Ismail Mawliid Abdilahi, officially opened a specialized training program focused on financial management, procurement, and disbursement, supported by the African Development Bank (AfDB). The training targets government accountants, auditors, finance officers, and project managers to strengthen their capacity in public financial management and auditing.
The program, designed to align with AfDB’s procedural frameworks, aims to enhance Somaliland’s financial governance and project execution. Mr. Hassan Farah Mohamed, Director of the Public Financial Management (PFM) Department, emphasized the training’s importance in streamlining operations and ensuring compliance with international standards, particularly for key AfDB-supported initiatives like the Loyada Road Project and the Ministry of Finance’s Financial Management Project.
The Government’s Chief Accountant, Mr. Hassan Muse Khalif, underscored that robust accounting systems are vital for fostering trust and efficiency in partnerships with development institutions like the AfDB. He noted, “Sound financial management is the backbone of our collaboration with partners driving Somaliland’s economic progress.”
Mr. Bubakar Sankareh, the World Bank representative for operations, also spoke at the event, highlighting the AfDB’s commitment to supporting Somaliland’s development through direct assistance in infrastructure, governance, and tax systems. “This training is a cornerstone for building Somaliland’s capacity to manage large-scale projects effectively,” he stated.
The three-day program will cover AfDB’s accounting and procurement protocols, equipping participants with the skills needed for upcoming major projects. “Every project requires meticulous financial oversight. This training ensures we are prepared to meet those standards,” said Mr. Mohamed. The Chief Accountant added, “With a significant AfDB project on the horizon, mastering these systems is critical for success.”
Hon. Abdilahi concluded, “Such training empowers our workforce, sharpens their expertise, and enables them to deliver exceptional results for Somaliland’s development.”
The initiative reflects the AfDB’s growing partnership with Somaliland, aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth and institutional development.