AGRA

Mogadishu, Somalia, 4th December 2024… An AGRA led delegation just concluded an inaugural 3-day mission to Somalia, underscoring the commitment to revitalizing the country’s agri-food sector. The mission culminated with a key meeting with Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Salah Ahmed Jama, accompanied by the Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, Hon. Mohamed Maareeye. This high-level engagement focused on mobilizing investment for the implementation of Somalia’s National Transformation Plan (NTP, 2025-2029), addressing systemic issues affecting agriculture sector (seed system, farmer advisory services, resilience, market and trade, finance, policy and institutional capacity), and fostering economic growth.

During the courtesy meeting, Deputy Prime Minister Jama emphasized the critical need for AGRA’s support in mobilizing investments to drive the NTP forward. The government’s vision encompasses not only addressing the structural challenges within Somalia’s agri-food sector but also leveraging agriculture—which constitutes 71% of the GDP—to spur economic growth and create employment opportunities for the youth, who make up 75% of the population.

The AGRA delegation led by the Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Prof Jean Jacques M. Muhinda laid the groundwork for a robust collaboration roadmap.  As an entry point, both parties agreed to jointly develop a flagship program aligned with Somalia’s NTP priorities, aimed at attracting investment from both public and private sectors.

Prof Muhinda said, “The NTP program will serve as a cornerstone for Somalia’s agricultural transformation, ensuring sustainability and resilience. In collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation, we identified several key areas for partnership. Such as Strengthening Seed Systems, Sector Coordination Mechanisms, Agricultural Data Systems, Leadership Cultivation and National Agriculture Investment Plan.”

AGRA’s will walk with the Government of Somalia for them to realize their vision for a vibrant and sustainable agri-food sector. “We shall leverage AGRA’s expertise and resources, to support Somalia’s journey towards economic recovery and food security. This mission marks a significant step in reshaping the narrative around Somalia’s economic recovery, highlighting the potential for growth and resilience within the agri-food sector,” said Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, Hon. Mohamed Maareeye.

With a shared commitment to addressing systemic issues and promoting sustainable growth, AGRA and the Government of Somalia are poised to drive transformative change, benefiting millions of Somalis and contributing to the nation and region’s long-term prosperity.