Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed arrived earlier today in Jigjiga, the capital of the Somali Regional State. His delegation was warmly received by officials from the regional administration, and he is expected to hold a series of meetings during his visit.
Accompanying the Prime Minister are several ministers from his federal government, while security in Jigjiga has been significantly heightened in preparation for the visit. Although the agenda for the meetings has not been officially disclosed, discussions are set to commence later today.
Yesterday, Abiy Ahmed inaugurated the Godey Irrigation Project, which underwent extensive renovation and expansion.
The project reportedly costing 3 billion Ethiopian birr, aims to boost agricultural productivity in the region. Somali Regional State President Mustafa Muhumed Omer emphasized the project’s significance during the launch.
Over recent years, Prime Minister Abiy has frequently visited the Somali Regional State. Observers suggest that his focus on the region may be partly due to the challenges of visiting other regions where armed conflicts pose a significant threat to his administration.
Meanwhile, residents of the Somali Regional State have voiced concerns over their perceived marginalization compared to other Ethiopian regions that have benefited from more visible federal government projects. Many are raising questions about the lack of equitable development across the country’s regions.
Updates to follow
