MOGADISHU – Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has laid the foundation stone for the reconstruction of the central headquarters of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, a project that forms part of the DanQaran government’s broader efforts to modernise key public institutions and strengthen the country’s economic infrastructure.
The ceremony, held at the ministry’s original premises in Mogadishu, marks a significant step in the government’s commitment to rebuilding state institutions that have suffered from decades of neglect. The building, which was originally constructed 50 years ago, had fallen into disrepair over the years.
Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Barre emphasised the strategic importance of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry for Somalia’s economic development. “The Ministry of Commerce and Industry is a cornerstone of the nation,” he said. “It is the gateway for trade and the development of our country’s production. The reconstruction of this headquarters, which was built 50 years ago and had shown signs of decay, is an important step forward.”
The DanQaran government has prioritised institutional development, with similar reconstruction and modernisation projects underway across various federal ministries and agencies as part of the government’s state-building agenda. In December 2025, Prime Minister Barre conducted a limited cabinet reshuffle, appointing Jamaal Mohamed Hassan as the new Minister of Commerce and Industry, underscoring the administration’s focus on revitalising the commerce sector.
A Commitment to Economic Development
The Prime Minister highlighted the government’s determination to improve the country’s economic infrastructure and create a conducive environment for trade and investment. He noted that Somalia is moving toward development and increased production, with expectations that new factories owned by both Somali and foreign investors would soon be established in the country.
“Our country is moving towards development and increased production,” Barre said. “We expect that in the near future, many factories owned by Somali and foreign investors will be established in the country.”
Minister Hassan has been actively engaged in expanding Somalia’s international trade partnerships, having recently held talks with the Italian Ambassador focused on realigning bilateral relations toward enhanced economic integration and industrial advancement. He has also convened a meeting with key business figures from the Benadir region to discuss the future of the nation’s commercial landscape.
Modernising Government Infrastructure
The reconstruction project is part of the government’s wider strategy to modernise public institutions and improve service delivery to citizens. The Prime Minister praised Minister Jamaal Mohamed Hassan for implementing the reconstruction project, describing it as an important step in strengthening the institution’s capacity and the services it provides to the Somali people.
Way Forward
The reconstruction of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry headquarters represents a tangible commitment to institutional development and economic growth. As the DanQaran government continues its efforts to rebuild state institutions and attract investment, the modernisation of key ministries is expected to enhance administrative efficiency and contribute to the country’s broader economic recovery and development goals.
