Kenyan Commentator Points to Ethiopia’s Somali Region as a Blueprint for Transforming Kenya’s Counties

Addis Ababa, July 13, 2026 (FMC) — A Kenyan commentator has pointed to Ethiopia’s Somali Regional State as a development experience that Kenya’s counties can learn from, highlighting the region’s transformation in governance, infrastructure, security, urban development and economic growth.

In an opinion article published by The Star Kenya, columnist Farah Kalmey shared reflections from his visit to Ethiopia’s Somali Region, describing a journey of change that he said offers important lessons for counties seeking to accelerate local development.

Kalmey said his visit provided a different perspective from long-standing perceptions of the region, which had often been associated with challenges and marginalization. He described witnessing visible changes in towns including Jigjiga, Godey, Qabridahar and Dhagahbur, where expanding infrastructure, growing businesses and improved public spaces reflected what he characterized as a new development trajectory.

The Kenyan writer particularly highlighted Jigjiga, the regional capital, as a symbol of transformation, pointing to improved roads, urban landscaping, pedestrian areas, public facilities and a changing city landscape as examples of how strategic investment can reshape urban centres.

According to Kalmey, one of the key lessons from Ethiopia’s Somali Region experience is the importance of linking security, effective leadership and development efforts. He argued that stability creates the foundation for investment, business expansion and improved public services, enabling communities to pursue broader economic opportunities.

The commentator also emphasized the importance of leadership and implementation capacity, noting that development outcomes depend not only on plans and policies but also on effective execution, project monitoring and accountability.

Beyond Jigjiga, Kalmey highlighted the development potential and emerging roles of other towns across the region. He noted that balanced development beyond major urban centres can create wider opportunities by strengthening agricultural activities, trade, local enterprises and public services in different areas.

The Kenyan writer further pointed to the growth of private-sector activities, including businesses, hospitality services and local markets, as evidence of how public investment and improved conditions can encourage economic participation.

Kalmey argued that Kenya’s counties, particularly those facing development challenges similar to those historically experienced by Ethiopia’s Somali Region, could draw lessons from the region’s approach to governance, infrastructure expansion and locally driven development.

He also highlighted the importance of preserving cultural identity while pursuing modernization, noting that development can advance alongside the protection of heritage and local character.

The commentary presents Ethiopia’s Somali Region as a case of transformation shaped by infrastructure investment, improved stability, stronger governance and expanding economic activity. Through his reflections, Kalmey encouraged a regional exchange of experiences, suggesting that neighbouring communities can learn from each other’s development journeys.

The article reflects growing interest in subnational development experiences across the Horn of Africa, where regions and local administrations continue to seek approaches to improve service delivery, expand economic opportunities and accelerate inclusive growth.