By Abdullahi Jamaa | Wajir Today | Friday, 24 April 2026

Mandera Governor Mohamed Adan Khalif held talks on Thursday with Mustafe Mohamed Omer, president of Ethiopia’s Somali regional state, to accelerate implementation of a major cross-border development programme, officials said.

The meeting in Jigjiga focused on strengthening regional cooperation around the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project (HOAGDP), a multi-sector initiative aimed at improving infrastructure, trade and livelihoods along the Kenya–Ethiopia border.

The project includes construction of a bridge linking the two countries, establishment of a one-stop border post and trade facilitation centre, rollout of fibre optic connectivity and development of water resources, according to officials familiar with the discussions.

Authorities say the programme is expected to boost food security, enhance agricultural productivity and deepen regional integration in a region long challenged by poor infrastructure and limited market access.

“The engagement underscored the need for coordinated implementation of shared priorities that directly benefit border communities,” Mandera County Government said in  a statement

Governor Khalif was accompanied by Deputy Governor Ali Maalim, Kenya’s ambassador to Ethiopia Galma Boru, and representatives from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, including Kenya mission head Fatuma Adan and Ethiopia mission head Abebaw Bihonegn.

Technical teams from both national and county governments also attended the meeting.

The Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project is part of broader efforts by regional governments and partners to unlock economic potential in border areas by improving connectivity and easing movement of goods and people.