A meeting chaired by Lamlas approves Aden’s 2025 investment program with a budget exceeding 23 billion riyals.

A recent meeting in Aden, chaired by Minister of State and Governor Ahmed Hamid Lamlas, approved the investment program for 2025. The program features a budget of 23 billion, 240 million, and 950 thousand riyals. This initiative aims to enhance local development and achieve financial sustainability.

Key Attendees and Discussions

The meeting included the Secretary-General of the Local Council, Badr Ma’oun, along with directors from executive offices and various districts. Participants discussed the foundational principles and regulations governing the implementation of the investment program. Key topics included the development and diversification of local resources, improving revenue collection efficiency, and committing to the completion of ongoing projects. Additionally, the discussions emphasized increasing non-tax revenues from service fees and government goods, while prioritizing investments based on available financial resources.

Overview of the Investment Program

Directors from the Finance and Planning and International Cooperation offices presented the indicators for the 2025 investment program. The total number of investment expenditure projects reached 506, with 414 projects currently underway. Furthermore, 92 new priority projects focus on rehabilitating infrastructure, improving the sewage network, enhancing environmental health, and developing the electricity grid.

Financial Responsibility and Operational Efficiency

The meeting underscored the importance of avoiding new projects or activities that would incur additional financial commitments. Participants agreed to reduce unnecessary operational expenses and redirect budgets to improve the performance of government facilities. The discussions also highlighted the need to promote sustainable development and increase women’s contributions to development, alongside supporting education and teachers.

Commitment to Legal Revenue Collection

Governor Lamlas emphasized that achieving this budget resulted from collective efforts to activate local revenue collection, particularly from professional licensing fees and renewals, in accordance with Article 123 of the Local Authority Law. He stressed the importance of adhering to legal fees without any increases or decreases until the government reviews them in line with the current exchange rate of the local currency.

This investment program represents a significant step towards fostering economic growth and enhancing the quality of life for residents in Aden.

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