Mogadishu, February 21, 2024 — On February 20, 2025, a high-level delegation visited the under-construction Hamarweyne District Headquarters in Mogadishu. Mohamed Bashir Osman, Chairman of Guriga Oranje and the Honorary Consul of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Somalia, led the visit at the invitation of Commissioner Osman Muridi Ali, who is also Dutch-Somali.
The construction of Hamarweyne District Headquarters, initiated by the former Mayor and Banaadir Governor at a groundbreaking ceremony in July 2024, represents a broader mission to rejuvenate the historic heart of Somalia’s capital. This effort involves partnerships with residents, the diaspora, and businesses to restore the once-bustling downtown.
The new headquarters, slated to be the largest district office among Banadir Region’s 20 districts, reflects an ongoing commitment to improving infrastructure and providing better administrative services and support to the residents. With a budget of $301,000, the three-story building will include 16 offices, structural costs, interior finishing, electrical and plumbing installation, safety and compliance features, and landscaping/external works.
The delegation included influential figures such as the former Deputy Mayor and Guriga Oranje Board Member Mr. Iman Nur Icar, chairman of the Somali Bankers Association (SBA) Mr. Ahmed Shirwac, social activist and cultural icon Ibrahim Hassan (Aabaha Jaceylka), founder of the Mama Ugaaso Foundation Ms. Siraad Mohamed, and pioneers of the A&A Gym chain, Abdiwali and Ahmed.
Commissioner Osman Muridi Ali said that more than half of the project’s $301,000 budget—$150,000—was directly contributed by Hamarweyne residents, highlighting significant grassroots involvement. The delegation commended the commissioner for securing these contributions, accounting for 50% of the project’s budget. They praised the financial transparency and outstanding community-led involvement, suggesting that this model could be replicated in other districts. Furthermore, they emphasised Hamarweyne’s pivotal role in the history of Mogadishu and Somalia due to its central geographical location and historical significance as a hub for Somali business, highlighting the district’s considerable influence and importance in history.
He mentioned that he is actively engaging with the residents of Mogadishu who care about the old town, including the municipality, the business community, and the diaspora, to secure the necessary remaining support. Meanwhile, Guriga Oranje, leveraging its Dutch-Somali connections, has facilitated the coordination of mobilisation and technical support, linking the business community, influential public figures, and the diaspora.
During the meeting, Commissioner Osman Muridi Ali expressed his joy at reaching another milestone: Hamarweyne District’s iconic Via Roma road has been included in a newly signed road reconstruction agreement by the current Banadir Governor and Mogadishu Mayor, Mohamed Ahmed Amiir. According to the World Bank, this initiative is part of the $153.5 million World Bank-funded Nagaad Project, launched in February 2020, covering 13 kilometres of roadworks across six high-traffic corridors in Mogadishu. Via Roma has been prioritised due to its cultural and economic significance, aiming to improve urban infrastructure and local governance capacity.
The Guriga Oranje delegation visited the construction site of the new district headquarters building to witness the progress firsthand, demonstrating their support for the project and commitment to enhancement contributions.
Commissioner Ali guided the delegation through the site, showcasing key developments, discussing plans, and explaining the expected improvements in administrative efficiency and benefits for residents.
The visit concluded with a symbolic tree-planting ceremony. Children from the Mama Ugaaso Foundation planted saplings around the site, underscoring the project’s commitment to environmental sustainability and community well-being.
Finally, Guriga Oranje leadership has committed to supporting Commissioner Osman Muridi Ali by offering strategic advice and mobilising the diaspora and its influential members to ensure the successful completion of the Hamarweyne District reconstruction project.
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