PM Abiy Commends Somali Region’s Transformation at Shabeely Resort Inauguration

Addis Ababa, January 31, 2026 (ENA) — PM Abiy Ahmed officially inaugurated the Shabeely Resort today in Somali Region, hailing it as a testament to Ethiopia’s burgeoning status as a premier African tourism destination.

The 385-hectare development, nestled within the Somali Region, stands as a crowning achievement of the ‘Dine for Generation’ initiative.

During the ceremony, the Prime Minister reflected on the profound shift in the region's development trajectory.

He noted that the Somali Region has evolved into a vibrant hub for mega-projects, ranging from thousands of kilometers of new roadways and vital gas projects to industrial milestones like car assembly plants.

The Prime Minister spoke with particular admiration for the urban renewal unfolding in Jigjiga , the capital of Somali Region.

He observed that the corridor development in Jigjiga has redefined the city's character, suggesting that the Somali people's unique architectural ingenuity and housing construction methods serve as a model that should be shared across the entire nation.

Turning his attention to the local administration, PM Abiy praised the leadership for their exceptional dedication to both urban and rural progress.

He remarked that the success of the Shabeely project is a source of pride not only for Ethiopians but also people of the Horn, describing the region's governance as an exemplary standard for the Horn of Africa.

While celebrating these achievements, the Prime Minister shared a dual message for the future.

He emphasized that the journey has only just begun, urging leaders to expand the grandeur of Jigjiga tenfold or even twentyfold until it becomes a jewel of the entire continent.

He cautioned against the dangers of complacency, stressing that the immense potential of the region requires relentless labor.

The Shabeely Resort itself is a sprawling sanctuary featuring a 10,000-tree fruit park, an authentic camel park, and over 15 kilometers of shaded walkways. With world-class hospitality facilities and high-tech meeting halls, the resort embodies the spirit of Medemer—the philosophy of blooming through collective synergy.

PM Abiy concluded by expressing his deepest gratitude to those whose tireless efforts brought this vision to fruition, transforming Ethiopia’s natural endowments into a shared heritage for the global community.