AfDB approves Sh9.8 billion to boost road connectivity in Somalia
The African Development Bank has approved an extra $76.37 million for Somalia’s road upgrades, targeting key corridors to Ethiopia and Djibouti to ease trade, improve services and support regional integration.
Transport connectivity in the Horn of Africa is set for a major boost after the African Development Bank Group (AfDB) approved an additional $76.37 million (Sh9.8 billion) to support ongoing road infrastructure development in Somalia.
The funding is part of the broader Horn of Africa corridor programme that seeks to strengthen links between Somalia, Ethiopia and Djibouti, and enhance the region’s capacity for trade and integration.
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The new package comprises $49.16 million (Sh6.3 billion) from the African Development Fund, the AfDB’s concessional financing window, and $27.21 million (Sh3.5 billion) from the Transition Support Facility, which targets countries experiencing conflict and fragility.
According to the lender, the increased financing will enable the project to scale up its activities and accelerate the delivery of key transport assets critical to boosting regional connectivity.
AfDB officials note that the request for additional financing followed a significant expansion of the project’s scope.
Mike Salawou, the Bank Group’s Director of Infrastructure and Urban Development, said improved demand, refined designs and added components prompted the shift.
“The Programme has evolved from minimal interventions to full road upgrades, enabled by improved designs and the integration of new components, including bridges, additional road sections, and trade facilitation measures, social infrastructure to maximise the benefit for the local community,” Salawou said.
A substantial portion of the funds will go toward upgrading two key road segments: a 15-kilometre stretch from Zeila to Asha Addo in Somaliland, and a 22-kilometre section linking Beled Weyne and Kalabeyr in Hirshabelle State.
These roads form important arteries for the movement of goods and people within Somalia and across its borders, supporting the broader objective of reducing transport barriers in the Horn of Africa.
Beyond road construction, the programme incorporates community-focused development initiatives aimed at improving resilience and access to basic services.
Planned interventions include drilling boreholes, rehabilitating classrooms for skills training, constructing markets and storage facilities, and restoring health centres, all designed to ensure local populations benefit directly from the improved infrastructure.
The programme will also prioritise cross-border trade facilitation measures to stimulate regional commerce.
Key actions include strengthening support for small-scale traders, establishing a simplified trade regime between Somalia and Ethiopia, and extending Somalia’s automated customs system to modernise clearance processes.
AfDB reiterates that these measures are central to driving economic integration and supporting long-term stability in the region.
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