On September 20, 2026, Djibouti's Prime Minister Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed engaged in two significant meetings to drive forward the country's development agenda. The first meeting focused on the proposed new international airport, Al Haj Hassan Gouled Aptidon–Biidley, with representatives from several Arab financial institutions, including the Saudi Fund for Development and the Islamic Development Bank. Discussions centered on the project's technical, economic, and financial aspects.
The airport project aims to enhance Djibouti's connectivity, diversify its economy, and solidify its regional logistics role. The meeting allowed for an examination of the next steps required to advance the project's dossier, particularly updating feasibility studies and assessing environmental and social impacts. Partners emphasized the need for a thorough analysis to meet the standards of potential funding institutions.
To ensure an independent evaluation, the government is considering hiring an international consulting firm. The focus is on securing sustainable financing, prioritizing grants, subsidies, and highly concessional resources. Arab financial institutions reaffirmed their interest in continuing discussions to consolidate studies and refine financing modalities.
In a separate meeting, the Prime Minister received Diary Sow, head of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) mission in Djibouti. They discussed humanitarian response planning and coordination, as well as enhancing synergies between the ICRC's local and international structures. The ICRC mission in Djibouti plays a vital role in supporting vulnerable populations.
Diary Sow presented insights from recent missions to displaced and refugee populations, including those from Yemen. She also shared observations from a visit to Holl-Holl, highlighting the needs of affected communities. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of mobilizing resources for the Djiboutian Red Crescent to enhance its operational capacity.
The Prime Minister's meetings underscore the government's dual focus on driving long-term development projects and addressing humanitarian needs. Effective coordination with partners is crucial for advancing the airport project and improving humanitarian response. These efforts aim to support Djibouti's development and provide adequate assistance to vulnerable populations.
The government's strategy involves balancing large-scale infrastructure projects with urgent humanitarian needs. By engaging with Arab financial institutions and humanitarian organizations, Djibouti seeks to leverage resources and expertise to achieve its development goals. The progress of these initiatives will be closely watched by stakeholders.
Key points
- Djibouti's Prime Minister advances airport project with Arab financial institutions.
- The government seeks to enhance humanitarian response and coordination with the ICRC.
- The airport project aims to boost Djibouti's connectivity and economic diversification.
