Somalia’s Parliament approves $1.39 billion 2026 national budget in joint session
MOGADISHU — Somalia’s bicameral Federal Parliament on Tuesday approved the National Budget for the 2026 fiscal year, endorsing a $1,386,807,242 spending plan during a joint session held in Mogadishu.
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The budget’s passage, by an overwhelming majority, sets the federal government’s financial framework for the coming year. According to parliamentary results, 174 lawmakers voted in favor, four opposed, and one abstained, signaling broad cross-chamber support for the plan.
Senior government officials attending the joint session said the 2026 budget is designed to strengthen state institutions, enhance national security, expand social services, and support economic development across the country. The approval is expected to play a central role in advancing the Federal Government of Somalia’s development agenda and ongoing efforts toward stabilization, reconstruction, and improved service delivery.
Lawmakers from both the House of the People and the Upper House took part in the vote, concluding weeks of deliberation on the fiscal blueprint. The joint session outcome provides clarity for federal ministries and agencies as they align programs and priorities with the approved funding envelope for the new fiscal year.
- Total size: $1,386,807,242
- Vote tally: 174 in favor, 4 against, 1 abstention
- Stated priorities: institution-building, national security, social services, and economic development
Officials emphasized that the budget is intended to consolidate recent governance gains by channeling resources toward core state functions and frontline services. The emphasis on security and service delivery reflects continuing national priorities, alongside measures to support economic activity and lay foundations for broader growth.
While detailed line-item allocations were not disclosed during the session, the vote gives the federal government the authorization to proceed with its plan for the 2026 fiscal year. Implementation will focus on strengthening public institutions, improving access to essential services, and pursuing projects that contribute to stabilization and reconstruction across regions.
The budget’s approval also signals political alignment on the direction of fiscal policy heading into 2026. With a decisive margin in favor, the parliament’s endorsement underscores a shared commitment among lawmakers to maintain momentum on state-building and service expansion efforts.
As the fiscal year approaches, the government is expected to translate the approved framework into sector-level programs and operational plans, with the stated aim of delivering tangible improvements in security, social protection, and economic opportunity. The budget’s backers characterized it as a foundational step toward more resilient institutions and sustained development.
By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
