Officials Confirm Completion of First Phase of Shabelley Resort Project

Addis Ababa, January 11, 2026 (ENA)—Federal and regional government officials have confirmed the successful completion of the first phase of the Shabelley resort project following a joint inspection visit in Ethiopia’s Somali region.

The delegation, led by Minister of Irrigation and Lowlands Abraham Belay and the Head of the Somali Region Urban Development and Construction Bureau, Ahmed Shukri, toured the project site alongside senior officials and technical experts.

During the visit, they reviewed completed facilities and observed final preparations ahead of the resort’s official inauguration.

According to the Somali region government communications bureau, officials assessed multiple sections of the resort in collaboration with implementing institutions and expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace of construction.

 Contractors were commended for their strong performance in recent months, with most works reported to be completed on schedule.

As part of the inspection, the delegation also visited newly constructed communal housing units built for low-income residents displaced by the project.

Authorities described the housing initiative as a reflection of the “Medemer State” policy, which emphasizes social responsibility and support for communities affected by large-scale development projects.

The Shabelley Resort Project is being developed under the federal government’s “Dine for Nation” tourism initiative.

On 4 January 2025, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed highlighted the project’s significance, noting that it covers approximately 380 hectares and has considerable potential for future expansion.

“No matter which corner of our country we visit, we are met with boundless opportunities and hope,” the Prime Minister said, adding that Ethiopia continues to register broad-based progress across multiple sectors despite existing challenges.

He further stressed that lasting development depends on sustained peace, calling on all stakeholders to protect stability as the foundation for long-term growth.

Located in the Fafen Zone, around 29 kilometers from the regional capital Jigjiga, the Shabelley Resort spans roughly 385 hectares.

Officials confirmed that the first phase of construction has been completed to high quality standards, marking a key milestone in the government’s flagship tourism development program.