Mogadishu, December 15, 2025 — The Federal Government of Somalia, through the Ministry of Interior, Federal Affairs and Reconciliation, on Monday officially launched the SINNAAN Programme, a nationwide initiative aimed at strengthening urban development, improving municipal service delivery, and enhancing climate resilience across Somalia’s cities.
The launch event, held in Mogadishu, was presided over by the Federal Minister for Interior, Federalism and Reconciliation, Ali Hosh, who served as the guest of honour and keynote speaker. The ceremony brought together senior officials from the Federal Government, Federal Member States, local governments, international development partners, and implementing agencies, reflecting a shared commitment to building inclusive, well-planned, and climate-resilient urban centres.
Among the federal line ministries invited to deliver remarks was the Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Bashir Mohamed Jama, who highlighted the increasing vulnerability of Somali cities to climate-related shocks and stressed the need to integrate environmental sustainability and climate adaptation into national and municipal development planning.
Senior representatives from Federal Member States and local governments also addressed the gathering, including the Deputy Minister of Interior of Galmudug State, Ahmed Osman Aden, the Deputy Minister of Interior of South West State, Abdifitah Ali Mursal, the Mayor of Dhusamareb, Abdirahman Ali Mohamed, and the Mayor and Governor of Baidoa, Abdullahi Ali Watiin. The Deputy Governor for Public Works of Banadir Region, Abdimajiid Dahir Aden, also delivered remarks.
All speakers welcomed the launch of the SINNAAN Programme, emphasizing its importance in enabling Somali cities to better withstand climate shocks, enhance urban infrastructure and aesthetics, and stimulate inclusive local economic growth at a time of rapid urbanization.
Providing an overview of the programme’s objectives and expected outcomes, Sid Patnik, Head of the SINNAAN Programme, outlined how the initiative will support municipalities in strengthening urban planning systems, improving service delivery, and implementing long-term, climate-resilient development interventions.
Also speaking at the event, Beatrice Kinyanjui, Managing Director of DT Global Africa, underscored the importance of partnership and collective action in driving sustainable urban development.
“Progress requires unity of purpose, innovative thinking, and an unwavering commitment to partnership,” she said. “Together, we are investing in Somali cities that are more resilient, prosperous, and sustainable for all. What began as a vision is now action—the SINNAAN Programme is moving from concept to concrete impact.”
Addressing the ceremony, British Ambassador to Somalia Charles King noted that Somalia’s cities are expanding rapidly amid escalating climate pressures. He emphasized that the SINNAAN Programme directly addresses these challenges by strengthening climate resilience while promoting job creation and inclusive economic development, adding that several cities across the country will benefit from targeted investments.
The Federal Government of Somalia expressed its appreciation to the Government of the United Kingdom for its continued support, acknowledging the presence of the British Embassy in Somalia and senior officials from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) at the launch. Officials reiterated that the UK has consistently been a strong partner to Somalia, supporting development programmes that deliver tangible benefits to communities nationwide.
The SINNAAN Programme is a comprehensive urban development initiative focused on:
• Improving urban infrastructure,
• Strengthening cities’ resilience to climate change, and
• Supporting the enhancement and expansion of local government service delivery.
In addition, the programme aims to promote green development opportunities that will contribute to poverty reduction, job creation, and improved livelihoods.
Overall, the SINNAAN Programme is expected to play a transformative role in advancing sustainable urban development and improving the quality of life for citizens across Somalia.
