By Abdullahi Salad - Reporter
Somalia, 12 June 2026 – Hirshabelle State President Ali Hussein Guudlaawe, said his administration overcame major challenges that long hindered development of Jowhar, the state capital, and across Hirshabelle.
Guudlaawe noted that one of the most significant obstacles has been the high cost of construction materials. He explained that transporting a single truckload of sand or stones to Jowhar can cost more than $1,500, significantly increasing the expenses of development projects and infrastructure construction.
"A truck carrying sand or stones costs at least $1,500 to reach here. People may ask why more development projects were not implemented in Hirshabelle before. The materials come all the way from Mogadishu," President Guudlaawe said.
The remarks were made during a state banquet held in Jowhar in honor of Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, after he inaugurated several development projects undertaken by the Hirshabelle administration.
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Guudlaawe also cited insecurity and Al-Shabaab attacks as major challenges that delayed development efforts. However, he stated that significant progress has been made in overcoming those obstacles. In recent years, Hirshabelle has carried out security operations and mine-clearing activities to secure key roads and areas across the state.
On Thursday, Hirshabelle officially inaugurated a number of completed development projects and laid foundation stones for new ones. The event was attended by President Mohamud, who is on a working visit to Jowhar. The projects include government facilities, a modern presidential complex, and key road infrastructure aimed at advancing the development of the Hirshabelle capital.
Guudlaawe said that despite challenges related to security, finances, and the transportation of construction materials, his administration has succeeded in delivering important projects and remains committed to transforming Jowhar into a modern capital equipped with essential services and infrastructure.