The Council of Ministers meeting, chaired by the President of Puntland, Said Abdullahi Deni, streamlines various critical issues for the region’s development. The attendees focused primarily on Puntland’s development projects, security, the completion of local council formations, and other essential matters.
Garowe, Puntland, SOMALIA.
During the meeting, President Deni emphasised the need for alignment between the development projects in Puntland, the government’s policies and Puntland’s 5-year development plan. He outlined several fundamental principles that should guide the implementation of development projects in the region.
First, the Puntland authorities must manage the projects, specifically the Program Coordinator Unit. Second, the agreement for each project should clearly state Puntland’s fair allocation. Third, the responsibility for procurement management of the project lies with Puntland’s project management. These requirements aim to ensure accountability and development projects’ alignment with the 5-year development plan of Puntland. By managing projects within the region and involving local authorities, the government seeks to enhance local ownership and effective implementation.
Moreover, the Auditor General of Puntland will oversee the implementation of any project in Puntland. This will ensure transparency and adherence to financial regulations. Finally, funds for each project must go through the Puntland Government’s Treasury Single Account (TSA), utilising the Central Bank of Puntland. Centralising project funds through the TSA will enhance efficient financial management and control.
Fostering economic growth
The government’s emphasis on aligning projects with the 5-year development plan underscores its commitment to strategic and sustainable development in Puntland. By adhering to these principles, the government aims to maximise the impact of development initiatives. It also fosters economic growth and improves the overall well-being of Puntlanders.
The Council’s decisions reflect the government’s dedication to ensuring that development projects occur in a responsible and accountable manner. It highlights the government’s commitment to utilising resources effectively and efficiently to support the region’s long-term development goals.
Finance Minister: FGS is politicising aid
Puntland Government’s efforts to foster economic growth and enhance processes related to development projects come amid a strained relationship with the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS). In August, Puntland’s Finance Minister, Mohamed Abdirahman Dhabancad, accused the central Somali government of politicising aid. He blamed Mogadishu for obstructing the distribution of international grants and projects, which impedes the region’s overall progress.
Puntland’s Finance Minister emphasised the importance of direct benefits to the people through project contracts, ensuring that revenue and taxes from these initiatives channel back into Puntland. Moreover, he underlined the advancements of the financial system and the Central Bank of Puntland, highlighting their readiness to manage international aid and grants efficiently.
