MOGADISHU, (Horn post) Somalia hosted the 27th Ministerial Meeting of the Horn of Africa (HoA) Finance Ministers’ Forum on Wednesday, marking a historic milestone in regional economic cooperation. The summit, held for the first time in Mogadishu, brought together finance ministers and senior officials from member states to discuss collaborative strategies for economic growth, stability, and infrastructure development.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud officially closed the session, commending the participating ministers and regional leaders for their efforts in promoting economic cooperation, sharing expertise, and advancing financial stability across the Horn of Africa. The President highlighted that hosting the summit reflects Somalia’s ongoing recovery and the growing international confidence in the country’s security and governance. “Leading this forum is a unique opportunity to strengthen regional partnerships and advance shared interests,” he said.
Co-chaired by Somali Finance Minister Bihi Iman Egeh and European Commission Representative Myriam Ferran, the meeting focused on Mission 300 (M300) —an ambitious initiative to provide electricity access to 300 million Africans by 2030. Supported by the World Bank and African Development Bank (AfDB), the project aims to expand rural grids, develop mini-solar networks, and train local technicians to ensure long-term sustainability.
Djibouti’s Minister of Economy and Finance, Ilyas Moussa Dawaleh, praised Somalia’s resilience and return to the “heart of regional dynamics,” while AfDB Vice President Nnenna Nwabufo underscored the importance of joint financing that incorporates social and environmental standards.
The European Union and World Bank confirmed their financial and technical backing, and a regional steering committee was established to harmonize national policies and facilitate cross-border electricity exchanges through the East African Energy Pool. Participants emphasized that the initiative would stimulate socio-economic development, including improved access to education and healthcare, support for SMEs, local employment, and food security. Projects will prioritize low-carbon solutions and integrate climate disaster management strategies.
The 27th HoA Ministerial Meeting represents a key step toward regional integration, sustainable energy development, and economic growth in the Horn of Africa, positioning Somalia as a central hub for diplomacy and development in the region.
Somalia Horn of Africa summit, HoA Ministerial Meeting Mogadishu, Mission 300 electricity, Somalia regional cooperation, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Horn of Africa energy initiatives, African Development Bank AfDB, World Bank energy projects, East African Energy Pool, Somalia economic recovery.
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Horn post staff reporter
Mogadishu Somalia
