By Dawan Africa - Reporter
Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-The Federal Government of Somalia has implemented new measures to improve its administration and governance, ensuring compliance with its laws, following audit recommendations from the last financial year.
In a press conference on Wednesday, Somalia’s Auditor General, Ahmed Issa Gutale stated that the Puntland State Administration had sold military bases situated in the Mudug Region for $20 million.
He further asserted that this money was allocated to the construction of Gara’ad Ports.
“Puntland State Government sold two Military Camps; Kabidda and Sinai for $20 million. That money was directed towards the construction of Gara’ad Port’s,” Mr. Gutale said.
Mr. Gutale emphasized that Gara’ad Port is a general property for the Somali people, stating that the camps were formerly under the federal government.
“The revenue earned from this owned by the Somali people, given that these camps were the property of the Central government, prior to the establishment of the federation. Therefore, any amount generated from this port are considered public funds and should pass through the Auditor General’s office,” he added.
Mr. Gutale also issued directives to various government agencies and non-governmental organizations, urging them to adhere to the laws and to register with the Auditor’s office to curb the misappropriation of public funds.
“Non-governmental organizations engaged in development and humanitarian projects funded by government or donor funds, as well as individuals undertaking initiatives, are obligated to ensure accountability for their management,”
“As a result, grant agreements involving government agencies, state governments, and government-profit entities must be registered both at the federal level with the National Auditor General’s office and at the state auditor’s office,” he further stated.
This statement comes after Puntland State Administration’s recent inauguration of Gara’ad port along the shores of the Mudug region, in an event attended by the President of the Federal Government of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
