Jigjiga City, located in the Somali Regional State of Ethiopia, has undergone remarkable transformations over the past five to six years. The city has experienced significant improvements in various sectors, including infrastructure development, water services, economic partnerships, investments, job creation and tax payment performance. These developments have not only enhanced the quality of life for the city’s residents but have also positioned Jigjiga as a thriving economic center in the region.
The Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA) has reached out Shafi Ahmed, Mayor of Jigjiga City in order to discuss in detail the key areas of progress and highlights the significant changes that have taken place, contributing to the city’s overall growth and development. According to Shafi, one of the most noticeable advancements in the City has been in infrastructure development.
Over the past few years, the city has witnessed a surge in construction projects, particularly in housing. The construction of numerous houses has addressed the pressing housing needs of the growing population, ensuring that more residents have access to decent living spaces.
Furthermore, there has been a significant expansion of the road networks within the city. The coverage of asphalt roads has increased from 10.6 kilometers to an impressive 28.5 kilometers, facilitating smoother transportation and enhancing connectivity. This expansion has not only improved accessibility within the city but has also boosted trade and commerce, as goods and people can move more efficiently, he noted.
He further explained that coupled with the city’s internal road network, efforts have been made to improve rural and urban alternative roads, connecting Jigjiga City with the surrounding areas. These infrastructure developments have opened up opportunities for trade and economic growth by connecting previously isolated communities and facilitating the movement of goods and services.
Noting that access to clean and reliable water is essential for the well-being and quality of life of any community, he mentioned that Jigjiga City has placed a strong emphasis on improving water services. Over the past few years, the City Administration has made significant strides in increasing water coverage, with the goal of reaching 100% coverage from the current 60% accessibility.
Water supply infrastructure has been expanded and upgraded, ensuring that more households have access to clean water sources. The implementation of water projects, such as the construction of new reservoirs and the rehabilitation of existing water sources, has played a crucial role in meeting the growing water demand of the city’s residents.
These efforts have had a transformative impact on the lives of the people in Jigjiga City. Access to clean water has improved hygiene and sanitation, reducing the prevalence of waterborne diseases. Additionally, reliable water sources have allowed residents to engage in income-generating activities such as urban agriculture, contributing to poverty reduction and economic empowerment.
“An exciting development in Jigjiga City’s journey of progress has been the establishment of an economic partnership with Somaliland. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Ethiopian government and Somaliland has opened up new avenues for investment and economic growth,” he said.
As to him, the MoU provides enhanced access to ports and transportation networks in Somaliland, offering a strategic advantage to Jigjiga City. This improved connectivity has boosted trade activities and has the potential to attract foreign direct investment. The partnership has created opportunities for Jigjiga City to position itself as a key trade hub in the region, leveraging its geographical location and fostering economic integration.
The presence of the Berbera dry port in Somaliland has played a pivotal role in attracting investments to Jigjiga City. The port’s proximity and efficient import-export processes have facilitated smoother trade flows, making it an attractive destination for businesses. This influx of investments has contributed to job creation, economic growth, and the overall development of the city, he added.
As to him, the City Administration, in collaboration with various stakeholders, has actively promoted investment opportunities in sectors such as services, manufacturing, real estate, tourism, and urban agriculture. The city’s favorable business environment, coupled with its improved infrastructure and access to markets, has made it an attractive destination for local and international investors.
Mentioning that addressing unemployment and creating sustainable job opportunities have been key priorities for Jigjiga City, the Mayor avowed that the administration has implemented initiatives aimed at reducing unemployment rates and providing livelihood opportunities for its residents.
Over the past five years, Jigjiga City has witnessed a significant increase in job creation. More than 7,000 temporary and approximately 2,000 permanent job opportunities have been generated annually, he revealed. These employment opportunities span various sectors, including construction, manufacturing, services, and agriculture. The growth in job creation has not only improved the economic prospects of individuals but has also contributed to poverty reduction and social stability.
Furthermore, the Administration’s efforts to improve tax payment performance have yielded positive results. Through awareness campaigns and enhanced tax administration systems, businesses and individuals have shown increased compliance with their tax obligations. This improved tax collection has provided the city administration with the necessary revenues to sustain its development initiatives and provide essential public services.
“Our efforts have been fruitful, as we have set ambitious targets for tax collection. For the current fiscal year, we aim to collect 1.5 billion Birr, a significant increase from our benchmark of 150 million Birr in the 2020/21 fiscal year. The increased tax compliance indicates a notable shift in the mindset and behavior of businesses and individuals towards fulfilling their tax obligations, which is crucial for sustaining the city’s development initiatives and public services”, said Shafi.
As to him, the City is investing in digital infrastructure recognizing the role of technology in driving development. Jigjiga High-speed internet connectivity has been expanded, enabling residents to access online services, e-commerce platforms, and digital education resources. This digital transformation has opened up opportunities for entrepreneurship, innovation, and remote work, contributing to economic growth and job creation.
All in all, the Mayor highlighted that Jigjiga City has undergone remarkable transformations over the past five to six years, positioning itself as a beacon of progress and development in the region. The city’s commitment to infrastructure development, water services improvement, economic partnerships, investments, job creation, and tax payment performance has yielded tangible results. The expansion of road networks, increased housing availability, and improved water services have enhanced the quality of life for residents.
Moreover, the partnership between the Government of Ethiopia and Somaliland coupled with the presence of the Berbera dry port have attracted investments, stimulated trade, and positioned Jigjiga City as a thriving economic center. Job creation initiatives have provided employment opportunities and contributed to poverty reduction, while efforts to improve tax compliance have ensured the sustainability of development projects, he accentuated.
As Jigjiga City continues to evolve and grow, it serves as a testament to the transformative power of effective governance, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to the well-being of its residents. The city’s remarkable progress stands as an inspiration for other regions and cities striving for development and prosperity.
BY HIZKEL HAILU
The Ethiopian Herald March 27/2024
