MOGADISHU, June 24, 2026 – Somalia’s Ministry of Public Works, Reconstruction and Housing on Tuesday signed a contract for feasibility studies and design work on a key section of the planned Galkayo-Hobyo highway, a major infrastructure project aimed at boosting trade and connectivity in central Somalia.
The agreement covers surveying, engineering design, environmental and social impact assessments, and the preparation of tender documents for the 100-kilometre (62-mile) Galkayo-Elguula segment of the road.
The signing ceremony was chaired by Public Works Minister Ayuub Ismail Yusuf and attended by Defense Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, Galmudug Public Works Minister Ahmed Dhiblaawe Kaasir, and representatives from IBS Bank, GOB Community Organisation and consulting firm KKATT Consult Limited.
The Galkayo-Hobyo road is regarded as one of the most important transport corridors in central Somalia, linking inland communities with coastal areas and ports along the Indian Ocean.
Officials said the project is expected to facilitate trade, improve the movement of people and goods, strengthen security and enhance economic integration across the region.
The launch of studies and design work for the Galkayo-Elguula section marks a significant step toward implementing the wider 260-kilometre Galkayo-Hobyo highway project.
Speaking at the ceremony, Public Works Minister Ayuub said the project would play a crucial role in developing Somalia’s economic infrastructure and reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to accelerating investment in strategic infrastructure projects in cooperation with Galmudug authorities and development partners.
Defense Minister Fiqi welcomed the initiative, describing the road as vital for development, national connectivity and long-term stability in Somalia.
