Somalilandsun:Somaliland Roads Development Authority (RDA) has today launched an up
scaling and reform initiative to be implemented by RDA with the
collaboration of University of Hargeisa (UoH) and other civil society
organizations.
The launch event which was held at University of Hargeisa saw participation
of high level governmental officials including Minister of Transport and
Roads Development Abdillahi Abokor Osman and Director of Roads Development
Authority Osman Sheikh Abdi Sheikh Mohamed along with other various
stakeholders including community based roads development associations,
civil society organizations, traditional leaders, religious leaders, media
groups as well as engineers and academicians from University of Hargeisa.
RDA Director Osman Sheikh Abdi who addressed the event emphasized
importance of roads development for economic improvement and social
integration across Somaliland regions.
“We are launching this initiative today to make reforms in the roads
development approaches, ensure that our programmes are led by researches
and upscale implementation of ongoing projects. We would also strengthen
the coordination mechanisms among stakeholders involved in the development
of roads and related infrastructures” Director Osman Shekh Abdi said.
Mr. Abdi added that RDA initiatives are inline with President’s vision and
the wider national development plan of the country. He urged diaspora
associations, private sector actors and civil society organizations to take
part the development and maintenance of Somaliland’s key roads.
The President of University of Hargeisa Prof. Mohamed Yousuf praised RDA
for holding this important meeting at University of Hargeisa and creating
collaboration and working relationship between the two organizations.
“University of Hargeisa welcomes any working relationship between RDA and
UoH. We would provide support in researches and contribute to technical
aspects of projects that RDA implements” Prof. Mohamed Yousuf said.
Abdiaziz Hersi Warsame from Somaliland Y-PEER, who also provided speech at
the event, commended RDA for this coordination and up scaling initiative.
He said Y-PEER is already a partner of RDA and is willing to take part in
this new endeavor as well.
Finally, the Minister of Transport and Roads Development Abdillahi Abokor
officially launched the program.
“We gathered here today to listen to you, to consult with you and to work
with you on the development of Somaliland roads which are vital for the
wider economic growth of the country” Minister Abokor said.
He went on to say “I particularly very much thank to the leaders of the
community based roads associations who on their own initiatives began
constructing new roads. This encourages us and shows that people of
Somaliland understand importance of roads. We stand ready to give you any
support you may need from our side.”
Finally, Minister Abokor told participants that President Muse Bihi
encouraged all governmental institutions to utilize research and
development units of Somaliland universities.
