Sunday June 15, 2025
World Bank Africa regional director Dr. Zarau Wendeline (center) is welcomed at Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport on Saturday, June 15, 2025, by Somalia’s Deputy Finance Minister Abdiqafar Elmi Haange (left) and Finance Ministry Director General Suleiman Sheikh Omar (right).
Mogadishu (HOL) — World Bank Africa regional director Dr. Zarau Wendeline arrived in Mogadishu on Saturday for a two-day visit to boost cooperation with the Somali government and evaluate the progress of major development initiatives. Dr. Wendeline was received at Aden Adde International Airport by Somalia’s Deputy Minister of Finance, Abdiqafar Elmi Haange, and the ministry’s Director General, Suleiman Sheikh Omar.
During his visit, the World Bank official is expected to meet with senior officials from Somalia’s Ministry of Finance and other federal financial institutions to review reform efforts and discuss the next phase of collaboration. He will also inspect World Bank-funded projects and engage with members of the Somali business community to promote inclusive economic growth.
The World Bank has committed nearly $2 billion to Somalia in recent years, supporting infrastructure, health, education, job creation, and fiscal reform efforts. A portion of the funding has also been used for limited budget support as Somalia continues to rebuild its economy after decades of conflict and institutional collapse.
“Although Somalia has not yet achieved full economic self-reliance, the World Bank’s support has been essential,” said Deputy Finance Minister Abdiqafar Elmi Haange in an interview with Somali National Television. “Dr. Wendeline was instrumental in securing debt relief for Somalia, and his visit marks the beginning of a new five-year cooperation strategy.”
Somalia reached the Completion Point of the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Initiative in December 2023, unlocking full debt forgiveness from international creditors. The milestone followed years of fiscal reforms, improved public financial management, and institutional restructuring.
Dr. Wendeline’s meetings with Somali business leaders are expected to focus on expanding private sector engagement in World Bank-supported programs, including infrastructure and job creation.
Haange said the visit signals growing international confidence in Somalia’s economic governance and reflects the country's progress in meeting key reform benchmarks.
The World Bank remains one of Somalia’s largest development partners, with a portfolio designed to support stability and service delivery.