The Federal Government of Somalia has reported a delay in its budget support from Turkey, with the Finance Minister confirming that the money has not yet been received this year.
Minister Bixi Imaan Cige, the Somali Minister of Finance, told the media that the Turkish government, one of Somalia’s leading partners, has yet to provide its annual budget support as the year draws to a close.
“Turkey has been providing budget support consistently in previous years,” Cige said.
“This year’s support of $30 million has been delayed. Unlike previous years, the money was not paid on time,” he added.
The minister noted that Somalia received most of its budget support this year from other international partners, including the European Union, the United Nations, and many friendly countries.
This delay has raised questions about why Turkey, one of Somalia’s most important partners in development, security, and humanitarian aid, has not yet provided the financial assistance it used to provide to the Somali government.
The finance minister’s statement comes as this year’s federal budget, worth more than one billion dollars, is still awaiting approval by Parliament.
Somalia is facing major financial challenges affecting the federal government and state governments, highlighting the dire need for external budgetary support.
