Mogadishu, Somalia — The Director General of the Ministry of Planning, Investment and Economic Development, Mohamed Shire, held a high-level meeting with the Country Director of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) in Somalia, El-Khidir Daloum, to align WFP’s upcoming country strategy with Somalia’s ambitious National Transformation Plan (NTP) 2025–2029.
The discussions focused on strengthening collaboration to address Somalia’s food insecurity crisis amid a sharp decline in Official Development Assistance (ODA). Both parties reaffirmed their shared commitment to Sustainable Development Goals 2 (Zero Hunger) and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), emphasizing the urgent need to reinforce strategic partnerships to improve food systems, enhance resilience, and reduce dependency on emergency aid.
“This meeting comes at a critical moment when Somalia is undergoing institutional reform and striving for self-reliance. Aligning WFP’s strategy with our National Transformation Plan will ensure that resources are directed where they are most needed and that development programming is sustainable,” said DG Shire.
Daloum praised Somalia’s vision and leadership in the NTP process, highlighting WFP’s support in areas such as nutrition, school feeding, food assistance for assets, and climate adaptation. He also noted that reinforcing coordination mechanisms with the planning ministry would help maintain accountability, prioritize vulnerable populations, and attract alternative financing options.
The meeting concluded with both sides agreeing to establish a joint technical taskforce to ensure coherence between WFP’s operational planning and Somalia’s development priorities. This initiative is expected to improve programmatic effectiveness while enhancing Somalia’s ability to navigate the challenges posed by a shifting donor landscape.
The NTP 2025–2029 outlines Somalia’s path toward inclusive development, economic growth, and social stability. WFP remains one of the federal government’s largest and most important partners in delivering humanitarian and development support to millions across the country.