Berbera (Dawan Africa) – The UAE government has officially launched a housing construction project in Somaliland valued at AED 27.5 million (approximately $7.5 million), according to Emirates News Agency on Wednesday.
The project is being implemented by the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), a government-owned development agency of the UAE. The initiative involves the construction of 300 residential units, strategically designed to meet the diverse needs of families. Additionally, critical infrastructure will be developed, including water systems, sewage networks, internal roads, and green spaces, creating a comprehensive environment that enhances the quality of life for the residents.
This project has the capacity to provide housing for approximately 1,500 individuals and plays a crucial role in addressing the housing shortage in the region. It will also generate job opportunities and stimulate economic growth.
According to Emirates News Agency, during the inauguration ceremony, Mohamed Aw-Ali Abdi, Vice-President of Somaliland, expressed his gratitude to the UAE for its ongoing support and recognized the project as a key advancement in improving living conditions in Berbera.
“This project is a strategic step towards improving the quality of life for our citizens by providing safe, dignified housing and promoting local economic development,” said Abdi. He further emphasized that the benefits of the project extend beyond housing, as it also includes infrastructure development and the provision of essential public services.
Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, highlighted that this initiative is part of the UAE’s broader effort to enhance infrastructure and social stability in Somaliland. “Providing adequate housing is fundamental to community stability and economic progress. This collaboration will benefit thousands of Somalis, creating new opportunities and driving economic growth,” he stated.
As reported by Emirates News Agency, this housing project is part of a larger UAE-funded effort, with a total grant of AED 330 million, managed by the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, aimed at supporting various strategic initiatives in Somaliland, including the restoration of the Berbera–Hargeisa highway.