Mogadishu, Somalia – The Federal Government of Somalia has unveiled plans for a major road project connecting the historic coastal city of Saylac to the bustling inland hub of Borama, in what officials describe as a milestone in national infrastructure development.
The Minister of Public Works, Dr. Ilmi Mohamud Nur, announced the initiative earlier this week, emphasizing that the new route is more than just a transportation corridor—it is a lifeline for trade, social cohesion, and regional stability.
“For too long, communities in this region have been separated by distance and poor infrastructure. This road will open up economic opportunities, improve access to essential services, and strengthen unity between our people,” Dr. Ilmi said.
Saylac, once a thriving port city with deep historical roots along the Gulf of Aden, has long been isolated from Somalia’s inland economies. Borama, meanwhile, serves as a vital commercial and educational center. The new road is expected to dramatically cut travel time between the two cities, enabling smoother movement of goods, livestock, and humanitarian assistance.
Local residents have greeted the news with cautious optimism. Traders hope the road will lower transportation costs, while pastoralist communities see it as a chance to access markets that were previously out of reach. Aid agencies have also welcomed the project, noting the potential for faster delivery of services to vulnerable populations.
Although the government has not yet disclosed the construction timeline or funding partners, Dr. Ilmi confirmed that feasibility assessments are underway and that environmental and community consultations will be prioritized to ensure sustainability.
“We are building more than infrastructure—we are building trust, resilience, and a better future for our children,” he added.
If completed as envisioned, the Saylac-Borama road could become one of the most transformative development projects in Somalia’s northwest in decades.