Jigjiga, the capital of Ethiopia's Somali Region, is experiencing a significant transformation under the leadership of H.E. Mustafe Muhumed Omar. Since 2018, Omar has prioritized infrastructure development, resulting in modern roads, revitalized public spaces, and major investments in water and public facilities. This progress aims to provide better services, greater economic opportunities, and a brighter future for its people. The city's road corridors are a striking symbol of this change, with a 30-kilometre corridor development initiative launched in February 2025.
The development in Jigjiga focuses on people, with essential services, mobility, and economic opportunities being key priorities. Upgraded public spaces and recreational areas have given the city a fresh, modern character. Water security is also a priority, with the inauguration of Phase II of the Jigjiga Town Water Supply Project in July 2024. This project marks an important step toward meeting the needs of a growing city. The administration's vision extends beyond the capital, with investments in Godey, a town near the Shabelle River, aimed at improving local transport and access to public facilities.
Godey has considerable agricultural potential, and the regional government has inaugurated 3.3 kilometres of asphalt roads in the town, valued at approximately 371.1 million Ethiopian birr. A major water supply project completed in 2022 expanded the town's distribution network to serve more than 100,000 people. Agricultural investment is opening further opportunities, with the West Godey Irrigation Scheme launched in January 2025 to irrigate up to 10,000 hectares. The World Food Programme and partners have also launched a solar-powered irrigation initiative in Godey to boost production and strengthen community resilience.
The administration's leadership is committed to inclusive development, with features designed to support the mobility of persons with visual impairments. The city's main road corridors have accessible pedestrian routes, allowing persons with disabilities to reach workplaces, schools, and public services with dignity and independence. This achievement offers a strong foundation to build on, with the potential to make Jigjiga a model of inclusive urban design for Ethiopia and the wider Horn of Africa.
The transformation of Jigjiga and investments in Godey's roads, water, and irrigation demonstrate a clear understanding that infrastructure must connect urban growth with rural livelihoods. Better roads help producers reach markets, reliable water improves household wellbeing, and irrigation enables farmers to raise incomes and strengthen food security. With continued stewardship, these investments will benefit communities for generations to come.
Looking ahead, the administration is well placed to seize several exciting opportunities, including extending accessibility features to all new roads, corridors, and public facilities across the region. Community participation and partnership between government, residents, and organizations of persons with disabilities will be crucial in shaping future projects. Sustaining gains in water supply and infrastructure through strong maintenance systems will also be essential.
Under the leadership of H.E. Mustafe Muhumed Omar, the Somali Region has shown what committed governance can achieve. The transformation of Jigjiga and investments in Godey stand as a testament to a leadership determined to change lives across Ethiopia's Somali Region. With continued vision and commitment, Jigjiga, Godey, and the wider region can look forward to a future of shared prosperity and opportunity for all.
Key points
- The administration's focus on inclusive development, with accessible pedestrian routes and features designed to support persons with visual impairments.
- The investments in Godey's roads, water, and irrigation, aimed at improving local transport and access to public facilities.
- The commitment to sustaining gains in water supply and infrastructure through strong maintenance systems.
