(24-04-23) MOGADISHU – In the face of continuous challenges posed by the Al-Shabaab terrorist group, Somalia is seeking international support to lift its 31-year arms embargo. A week ago, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres visited Somalia and met with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, with discussions revolving around the nation’s fight against terrorism and its ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Both former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo and current President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud believe that lifting the arms embargo would enable the Somali government to build a capable army with the necessary weapons to ensure national security and effectively combat terrorism.
While international countries have expressed their desire to help Somalia defeat Al-Shabaab, they have yet to allow the nation access to the weapons needed to weaken the group. Experts argue that the international community’s reluctance to remove the embargo may hinder the stability and the fight against Alshabaab in the both short and long term.
Dr Abdullahi Ali, a political analyst based in Mogadishu, stated, “Somalia has shown progress in many sectors, and the commitment to fight terrorism is evident. However, the arms embargo hinders the nation’s ability to fully eradicate extremist groups like Al-Shabaab. It is time for the international community to reconsider the embargo and trust the Somali government’s capacity to ensure security and stability.”
Security expert Dr Mohamed Ahmed also echoed the sentiment, saying, “Without the necessary resources and weaponry, the Somali government is forced to rely on the support of the African Union and Western countries. Lifting the arms embargo would be a crucial step towards empowering the nation to confront and defeat Al-Shabaab independently.”
During his meeting with the UN Secretary-General, President Hassan Sheikh highlighted the progress Somalia has made in recent years, particularly in the realms of education, health, and governance. He also emphasized the importance of inclusive politics, constitutional review, and overall security development.
It remains to be seen whether the UN and the international community will heed the Somali president’s call to lift the arms embargo. Nevertheless, providing Somalia with the means to protect itself and effectively combat terrorism is crucial for ensuring long-term stability and progress in the region.
Authored by Hanad Mohamed
© Halqabsi News
