“Our vision for Berbera is to make it a regional
maritime hub in the Horn of Africa and..." Sa'ad
- The construction of the multi-million Berbera Economic Free Zone is
set to start after the Somaliland government and the Dubai based DP
World company signed an agreement inaugurating the project.
Somaliland
President Muse Bihi and the Vice President of the DP World Suhail Al
Banna officially signed the agreement setting the stage for the
construction of what is expected to become the largest free economic
zone in the horn of Africa.
Situated on 12 square kilometres, the
new free zone will complement the growth of the Port of Berbera as a
regional trading hub and generate jobs, the Dubai-based
multi-businesses.
The project is also modelled on DP World’s Jebel
Ali Free Zone (Jafza) in Dubai and aims to attract investments,
encourage trade, create new jobs and position Berbera as a gateway port
for the region.
“Our vision for Berbera is to make it a regional
maritime hub in the Horn of Africa and its development will encourage
growth for the region’s economy,” said Al Banna.
“It’s also a
boost for local prosperity — jobs for the people of Somaliland and
future generations. We look forward to bringing our global experience
here and to help develop the Berbera Corridor, which is key to
encouraging regional economic activity,” he added.
The free zone
will house various businesses including warehousing, logistics, traders,
manufacturers and other related businesses.
President Bihi
explained his government’s long term commitment to develop the country
and create employment through such ventures while at the same time
building the country as a trading hub.
Somaliland Finance Minister
Saad Al Shire who signed the agreement on behalf of the government said
their partnership with DP World is a model that they are keen to
develop for the benefit of all.
“This free zone will complement
the growth of Berbera Port, enabling it to become a gateway for trade to
the region and the whole of Africa.
“It will also generate jobs
for the local population and encourage small and medium-sized companies
in the area to locate their operations in an environment conducive to
trade. Our partnership with DP World is a model that we will develop and
for the benefit of all,” said Saad.
BY ODINDO AYIEKO
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