Wednesday March 5, 2025
MOGADISHU (HOL) – The Somali government must take greater financial responsibility for national priorities, including security, after a shift in the global aid landscape, Finance Minister Bihi Imaan Egeh told lawmakers on Wednesday. He urged Somali citizens to pay their taxes to help offset funding shortfalls and support economic growth.
The Danab brigade, a specialized unit within the Somali National Army (SNA), was established with U.S. training and support to counter-terrorism and bolster stability in Somalia.
“The U.S. assistance has provided approximately $1.5 billion annually, which has had a positive impact on economic growth, job creation, and domestic tax revenues,” Egeh told lawmakers.
He further informed Parliament that the U.S. decision has directly affected the Danab forces, forcing the government to reallocate resources and establish a new budget to cover their salaries.
“We must work together to accelerate tax reforms, manage foreign aid more effectively, and optimize available resources,” Egeh said. “This funding reduction is not limited to the United States; it is a global trend.”
The Somali government now faces the challenge of finding alternative funding sources to sustain its military operations and development initiatives amid mounting financial strain.