Tuesday October 21, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) – The ongoing implementation of the Somalia
Recurrent Cost & Reform Financing (RCRF) Phase III project has drawn
criticism in Hirshabelle State, following concerns that the selection of
districts under the initiative lacked regional balance and inclusivity.
The RCRF Phase III, implemented by the Federal Ministry of
Finance, supports subnational governance and fiscal reforms by channeling funds
to district administrations through two stages — the First Cohort and Second
Cohort districts.
The project, funded by international partners, aims to
strengthen local government service delivery, enhance fiscal discipline, and
promote equitable development across federal member states.
While Southwest, Jubaland, and Galmudug who are implementing
the project have demonstrated regional and clan diversity in selecting their cohort
districts, Hirshabelle’s choices have sparked debate. The state chose Bal’ad as
its second cohort district, following Warsheikh in the first cohort. Both
districts are located in Middle Shabelle region and represent the same clan
grouping, raising questions about fairness and inclusivity.
Analysts and regional observers argue that the decision
undermines the project’s principles of equitable representation. They point out
that Beledweyne, a major district in Hiiraan region, would have been a more
balanced choice ensuring representation from both of Hirshabelle’s regions and
fostering greater inclusivity.
“Other states like Southwest, Jubaland, and Galmudug ensured
diversity either by changing the region or selecting districts from different
communities. Hirshabelle’s case stands out as an exception,” one observer
familiar with the project’s selection process said.
A review of cohort selections shows:
- Southwest State: Wajid (1st Cohort) and Barawe (2nd Cohort)
— representing different regions and clans.
- Jubaland State: Dhobley (1st) and Dolow (2nd) — different
regions and clans.
- Galmudug State: Abduwak (1st) and Adado (2nd) — same region
but different clans.
- Hirshabelle State: Warsheikh (1st) and Bal’ad (2nd) — same
region and same clan.
Stakeholders have urged the Ministry of Interior of
Hirshabelle and the RCRF coordination unit to review the selection to ensure
consistency with national standards of fairness and inclusivity.
The RCRF Phase III, identified as Project ID: P173731, is
now in its final implementation year (2025). The project’s closing date was
recently extended to December 31, 2025, to enable the completion of ongoing
reforms. These include advancing public financial management, strengthening
intergovernmental fiscal transfers, and supporting health and education service
delivery.