The Office of the Auditor General of the Federal Republic of Somalia has organized a research forum titled “Understanding and Advancing Infrastructure Auditing” aimed at ensuring the effectiveness, transparency, and value of infrastructure projects implemented by the Federal Government for the benefit of its citizens.
The discussion focused on strengthening accountability and efficiency in the management of national infrastructure investments, particularly in road construction and maintenance, which are vital for economic growth and service delivery.
According to available data, Somalia has a total road network of approximately 21,830 kilometers, of which only 2,860 kilometers are paved. Many of these paved roads have deteriorated over time, while others have not received maintenance for years.
The forum underscored the critical role of auditing and infrastructure performance evaluation in ensuring that public funds are used effectively, that projects deliver value for money, and that citizens benefit from safe and sustainable infrastructure. It also emphasized the need for regular technical assessments and quality assurance in government-funded road construction projects.
The Office of the Auditor General has previously conducted several performance audits to enhance transparency and efficiency in public spending. Among these were audits on the Somalia Crisis Recovery Project (SCRP) and the Biyoole Project, both financed by the World Bank, which assessed the effectiveness, impact, and financial integrity of major development initiatives in the country.
In a statement, the Office said it continues to promote good governance, accountability, and prudent management of public resources to ensure that infrastructure investments contribute to the nation’s long-term economic and social development.