Mogadishu, Somalia – December 30, 2024: The Banadir Regional Administration, together with the Municipality of Mogadishu, today approved a $101 million budget for 2025. With the theme “Green City, Peaceful City, and High-Quality Government Services,” the budget aims to tackle key challenges in infrastructure, social services, and governance, promising a transformative year for residents of the Somali capital.

The 2025 budget marks a significant leap from last year, with an overall increase of 38%. Local revenue sources, including taxes and service fees, are projected to bring in $73 million—a 31% increase—while grants and international aid are expected to grow by 59%, contributing $28 million. The figures reflect improving financial management and strengthened relationships with donors.

What’s in the Budget?

The approved budget lays out clear priorities for the coming year:

• Infrastructure (48%): Nearly half the budget, or $48.8 million, will go towards building and repairing roads and drainage systems to enhance mobility and mitigate flooding.
• Social Services (12%): Education and healthcare services will see $12 million allocated to improving school infrastructure and health facilities.
• Governance and Transparency (15%): Investments in administration and public financial systems will receive $14.7 million, focusing on accountability and efficiency.
• Security and Elections (12%): $12.3 million has been set aside to strengthen community safety and prepare for local council elections.
• Environmental Management: Projects to improve cleanliness and urban beautification feature prominently in the infrastructure spending.

“This budget is a step forward for the people of Banadir,” said a senior official from the regional administration. “We are focusing on tangible outcomes that directly impact our citizens’ daily lives.”

What It Means for Residents

For Mogadishu residents, the approved budget brings hope for much-needed improvements:

• Better Roads: A significant portion of funds is earmarked for road construction and maintenance to boost trade and connectivity.
• Enhanced Healthcare and Education: Investments aim to address chronic shortages in public health services and ensure more children can access quality schooling.
• Job Creation: Public works projects are expected to generate employment opportunities, particularly in construction and service delivery.
• Transparency and Accountability: The administration has pledged to ensure every dollar is spent efficiently, with mechanisms in place for public oversight.

While the ambitious budget has been welcomed by many, questions remain about its implementation. Critics have pointed to the need for improved oversight to prevent misuse of funds, particularly given the significant increase in capital expenditure, which has risen by 122% compared to last year.

Public participation has also been highlighted as a priority. Officials encourage citizens to voice their opinions through public forums, online platforms, and local meetings to ensure the budget reflects their needs.

The approval of the 2025 budget represents a milestone for the Banadir Regional Administration as it strives to address the complex challenges facing Mogadishu. Whether these ambitious plans translate into real improvements for residents will depend on the administration’s ability to deliver on its promises.