The Federal Government of Somalia’s Minister of Finance, Biihi Imaan Cige, has been honored with the prestigious Best African Finance Minister of the Year 2025 award during a high-profile ceremony held in the United Kingdom.
The award was presented in recognition of Minister Biihi’s pivotal role in spearheading Somalia’s successful debt relief program concluded in 2023, his leadership in modernizing the country’s domestic revenue systems, and his guidance in navigating Somalia through post-debt cancellation reforms.
According to organizers of the ALM Africa Summit 2025, where the award was announced, Minister Biixi’s reforms “contributed significantly to domestic revenue growth and positioned Somalia to avoid accumulating new debt while attracting grant-based development financing.”
The minister also led efforts in public financial management reform and helped re-establish Somalia’s financial credibility with international financial institutions.
In his acceptance speech, the Minister praised the Somali people, stating: “This award is not just for me. It belongs to the Somali people — the backbone of our nation’s economic recovery. Their resilience and contribution made this recognition possible.”
The award comes as part of the ALM Africa Summit, an annual gathering that brings together political and business leaders from across the continent to celebrate excellence in leadership, governance, and development.
Minister Biihi’s recognition marks a significant moment for Somalia’s economic journey, showcasing how sustained reform, transparency, and citizen-centered policies can restore trust and drive meaningful progress.
Mustaqbal
