In a landmark step toward modernizing its infrastructure, the Republic of Somaliland officially launched the tender process for the construction of the first phase of the Loyada-Zeila road, a critical segment of the Lawyacaddo-Saylac-Fardaha-Borama-Zeila highway. The bid opening ceremony, held at the Maansoor Hotel in Hargeisa, drew local officials, international partners, and representatives from bidding companies, signaling strong regional and global interest in Somaliland’s development agenda.
The Minister of Transport and Road Development, Hon. Osman Ibrahim Nur addressing attendees, underscored the government’s commitment to transparency in the bidding process. “We are a neutral court, ensuring every company’s bid is evaluated fairly without bias or favoritism,” the Minister declared. The project, which aims to connect Borama to Loyada on the Somaliland-Djibouti border, is a cornerstone of Somaliland’s vision to bolster its national highway network.
Mohamed Farah Abdi, Director of the Somaliland Road Development Agency (RDA), described the project as a game-changer for the region. “This road will drive economic growth, enhance connectivity with Djibouti and Ethiopia, and uplift communities in the Awdal and Salal regions by improving access to markets and services,” Abdi said. He added that President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi Ciro has prioritized the project, issuing directives to fast-track its construction and ensure rigorous oversight of contracted firms.
The initiative is poised to receive funding from international partners, including the African Development Bank, reflecting growing foreign investment in African infrastructure. Once completed, the road is expected to slash travel times, streamline trade routes, and improve quality of life for residents, particularly in the Awdal region.
The RDA, which hosted the event, is positioning itself as a hub of excellence in highway engineering, aligning with global standards. With bids now under evaluation, construction is slated to begin soon, marking a pivotal chapter in Somaliland’s journey toward sustainable development and regional integration.
“This is more than a road—it’s a lifeline for our economy and our people,” Abdi concluded, as stakeholders expressed optimism about the project’s transformative impact.