By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — Somalia’s Finance Minister, Bihi Iman Egeh, has confirmed that Turkey has not yet disbursed its annual budget support to the Somali government, marking a delay in funding that has traditionally played a key role in supporting the country’s public finances.
Speaking about the status of international budgetary assistance, Mr Egeh said Somalia had received most of its expected financial support for this year from international partners, including the European Union, the United Nations and several allied countries. However, he noted that Turkey — one of Somalia’s closest allies — has yet to release its contribution.
According to the finance minister, Turkey’s delayed support amounts to 30 million US dollars, funds that were regularly provided in previous years to help cover government expenditure.
“Turkey’s budget support for this year, which totals 30 million dollars, has been delayed. In past years, these funds were provided consistently,” Mr Egeh said.
Turkey has been a major political, economic and security partner of Somalia for more than a decade, investing heavily in infrastructure, humanitarian assistance and development projects, particularly in Mogadishu. The reasons for the delay were not disclosed, and Turkish authorities have not publicly commented on the matter.
The announcement comes at a critical time for Somalia’s public finances. The Federal Government’s proposed budget for this year exceeds one billion US dollars and is currently before the Somali parliament for approval. External financial support remains a significant component of the national budget, as Somalia continues to rebuild state institutions after decades of conflict.
Somalia has made progress in recent years in strengthening domestic revenue collection and public financial management, but it still relies heavily on international donors to fund essential services, including security, health and education.
Analysts say any prolonged delay in pledged budget support could place additional pressure on the government’s cash flow, particularly amid ongoing security operations against militant groups and efforts to stabilise the economy.
