World Bank Africa Director Arrives in Mogadishu for Official Visit

By A Yusuf

Mogadishu, Somalia, Sunday, June 15, 2025– Somalia’s Deputy Minister of Finance, Abdiqafaar Elmi Haange, has provided details about the official visit of Dr. Zarau Wendeline, the World Bank’s Regional Director for Africa, whose office oversees programs in 22 countries, including Somalia.

Speaking to the Somali National Television, Deputy Minister Haange noted that Dr. Wendeline will remain in Mogadishu for two days. During his visit, he will hold meetings with senior officials from Somalia’s Federal Ministry of Finance and assess the progress of key government financial institutions.

Minister Haange highlighted Dr. Wendeline’s important role in supporting Somalia’s debt relief efforts. He noted that the World Bank has funded numerous projects in Somalia, totaling nearly $2 billion, and continues to provide modest budgetary support. Although Somalia has not yet achieved full economic self-sufficiency, the Bank remains committed to strengthening cooperation over the next five years. We share many common goals with the World Bank, which has commended our dedication to meeting the conditions required for debt forgiveness.

He also described the visit as a positive step for Somalia, a country working to rebuild its economy.

Dr. Wendeline, who arrived in Mogadishu on Saturday, is expected to meet with Somali government leaders and members of the business community to explore ways to benefit from the World Bank’s development initiatives.

This visit signifies that Somalia is recovering from the devastation that occurred in 1991. It reflects the gradual return of institutions, governance structures, and the economic infrastructure that were severely damaged during the country’s collapse.