Djibouti is set to assist in the rebuilding of the Somali capital Mogadishu’s infrastructure as part of a cooperation between the two Horn of Africa countries.
On Tuesday Djibouti Ambassador to Somalia, Dr. Aden Hassan Aden Beleloo met the new Governor of Banadir Abdirahman Omar Osman Yarisow where they discussed cooperation between the regional administration and Djibouti.
“Our meeting was to discuss how we can help our brothers here in Mogadishu to rebuild the capital. It was also an opportunity to be acquainted with the new Governor Osman,” Dr. Aden told Dalsan TV in an exclusive interview.
“Governor Osman is capable and understanding and I believe we can exchange our experiences for the benefit of Djibouti, Mogadishu and Somalia at large,” Dr. Aden said after the meeting that was held at the Banaadir Administration headquarters.
“Together with the new Governor, Djibouti will assist to rebuild the roads and other infrastructure of the capital Mogadishu,” Dr. Aden added.
Plans are underway to link the cities of Djibouti and Mogadishu to be development partners.
Mogadishu whose infrastructure was mostly destroyed in the two-decade civil war is currently experiencing a boom.
“The Governor has offered an invitation of Djibouti Mayor to visit Mogadishu that will enable us to discuss more possible assistance and partnership in the future,” the envoy said.
Dr Aden has had a vast knowledge of the Somalia peace process and regional affairs. In the October 14 bombing where more than 500 people killed Dr. Aden on behalf of the people of Djibouti offered USD 1M towards the victim beside sending a team of medical doctors to treat the injured.
Djibouti has been pivotal in the Somali peace process. The first attempt at Somali national reconciliation conference was held in Djibouti, in June 1991.
“President Ismael Omar Guelleh and the people of Djibouti have in the past helped and will continue to help the people of Somalia,” Dr. Aden concluded.
27 years later, the country is still contributing to the peace process and is part of the 22,000 strong African Union Peacekeeping forces.
