The Minister of Public Works, Reconstruction, and Housing of the Federal Government of Somalia, Dr. Elmi Mahmoud Noor, is on an official visit to Nairobi, Kenya, where he held a meeting with Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Public Works, Lands, and Urban Planning, Alice Wahome.
The meeting was also attended by Somalia’s Ambassador to Kenya, Jibril Ibrahim Abdulle, and focused on deepening cooperation between the two neighboring countries in areas such as urban planning, housing, infrastructure development, and knowledge exchange.
During the discussions, both ministers emphasized the importance of training programs and the exchange of technical expertise. These initiatives are expected to enhance the capacity of both countries’ ministries to manage urbanization, develop resilient infrastructure, and implement effective housing programs. “Urbanization is accelerating across our region, and it is imperative that our cities are planned to meet the needs of our citizens. By sharing expertise and best practices, Somalia and Kenya can develop infrastructure that is sustainable, resilient, and inclusive,” said Dr. Ilmi Mahmoud Noor.
CS Alice Wahome welcomed the engagement, noting that Kenya has significant experience in urban development and housing initiatives that can benefit Somalia. “Our collaboration is aimed at ensuring that the rapid growth of cities in both countries is accompanied by strategic planning, affordable housing, and strong infrastructure. This is a win-win for both nations,” she said.
The ministers also discussed accelerating joint development projects, particularly those related to transport and trade corridors connecting Somalia and Kenya. Such projects are expected to improve trade, enhance regional integration, and foster economic growth in both countries. “Connectivity is key to our shared economic growth,” Dr. Noor said. “Investments in roads, bridges, and other infrastructure that link Somalia and Kenya will not only facilitate trade but also strengthen social and economic ties between our peoples.”
Another major focus of the meeting was the implementation of affordable and resilient housing programs. Both ministers highlighted the urgent need for housing solutions that cater to growing urban populations while remaining sustainable and disaster-resilient. “These initiatives are crucial for improving the quality of life of our citizens,” CS Wahome said. “Affordable and resilient housing ensures that communities can thrive, even as our cities expand.”
The high-level meeting concluded on a positive note, with both sides committing to expand and deepen cooperation in urban planning, infrastructure development, and housing. The ministers agreed to formalize mechanisms for continued knowledge exchange, joint training programs, and collaboration on regional development projects.
Ambassador Jibril Ibrahim Abdulle noted that the meeting reflects Somalia’s commitment to regional partnerships and development. “Our collaboration with Kenya is a strategic step towards strengthening institutional capacity, improving urban infrastructure, and creating a better future for our citizens,” he said.
The discussions form part of ongoing efforts to consolidate agreements between Somalia and Kenya, reinforcing bilateral relations and fostering mutual growth. The visit underscores the shared vision of both countries to promote sustainable urban development, resilient infrastructure, and inclusive economic growth.
