Northeastern State’s Infrastructure: A Quest for Autonomy and Progress

Xarfo, Northeastern State – In an inspiring display of resolve, President Said Abdullahi Deni of Northeastern State took a significant step on Wednesday. With a powerful gesture, he laid the foundation stone for a new road that promises to connect the town of Xarfo with the bustling city of Galkayo. This isn’t just any road—it’s part of a grander vision to rejuvenate the essential Garowe–Galkayo highway, a lifeline for the region.

What drives such ambition? For years, the people of Mudug have raised their voices, yearning for infrastructure to match their economic aspirations. Now, their calls are being answered. Remarkably, the funding for this endeavor is sourced entirely from the domestic coffers of Northeastern State’s government. It stands apart from the usual narrative of reliance on international aid.

But there’s more to this story. Originally, the plan was to harness the financial might of the African Development Bank (AfDB). Yet, unexpected hurdles emerged. The Federal Government of Somalia put a halt to Northeastern State’s proposal for independent project management, advocating instead for centralized control in Mogadishu. This approach didn’t sit well with Northeastern State. Why should regional aspirations be stifled by bureaucratic bottlenecks?

“Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.” – George Bernard Shaw

Such a stance has only further complicated the delicate relationship between Northeastern State and Somalia’s Federal Government. The regional state insists on its constitutional prerogative to oversee developmental projects within its domain. Could it be that political interests are overshadowing genuine development goals? Accusations fly from Northeastern State, pointing a finger at Villa Somalia for politicizing initiatives that aim to uplift the local populace.

After enduring an extended impasse, the Northeastern State Government chose a path of resilience. With internal funds, President Deni, backed by top officials, inaugurated the construction activities with a promise: Service delivery will not falter, even amidst federal roadblocks. This announcement brings hope to Galkayo and its neighboring regions.

A tale of perseverance unfolds, as Northeastern State mobilizes efforts state-wide. The Garowe–Bosaso highway sees major refurbishments, while a new 90km stretch from Ceel Daahir to Badhan in eastern Northeastern State takes shape. Consider the magnitude—local infrastructure projects, once dreams, now realities fueled by internal vision and resources.

A senior official from the Northeastern State administration remarked that these independent ventures are profound statements of intent. The region is conveying a message: development doesn’t wait. And to development partners and the Federal Government, this endeavor underscores the necessity of respecting federal principles and ensuring equitable growth across Somalia. A question lingers—will this example ignite a broader transformation across the nation?

In today’s world, can any region afford to remain stagnant? Northeastern State’s steps toward self-reliance offer much food for thought. For some, it might seem like an audacious move; for others, a beacon of empowerment. In any case, it exemplifies the audacity to tread a path less dependent on external forces.

Report by Ali Musa, Axadle Times International – Monitoring