(22-06-23) NEW YORK — Somalia’s President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, made an appeal to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Thursday, beseeching them to re-examine the long-standing arms embargo imposed on his country since 1992. During a powerful address, President Mohamud offered a detailed exposition of Somalia’s present security landscape and the progress made in the fight against the terrorist group Al Shabaab.
“We recognise that defeating Al Shabaab requires a multi-faceted approach that includes capable and effective security forces, an inclusive state-building process, and the ability of the state to provide vital services to the public,” the President stated.
Notable victories have been scored in the ongoing struggle against Al Shabaab, according to President Mohamud. Over the past year, government forces have freed more than 70 towns from the grip of Al Shabaab, subsequently reopening main north-south transport routes and unlocking vast fertile farmlands.
He added, “Through a combination of our military offensive’s ability to dislodge and disrupt Al Shabaab and the considerable advancements in urban security efforts through enhanced intelligence efforts, we are witnessing a notable reduction in terrorist attacks in our capital city, Mogadishu.”
The President also underscored the substantial strides Somalia has taken in the fight against terror financing, including tightening anti-money laundering regulations and closing down over 300 accounts providing illicit funds to the terrorist organisation.
Nevertheless, the President asserted that the arms embargo has become more of a hindrance than a constructive measure for Somalia’s security efforts. He argued that the embargo obstructs the country’s ability to acquire the necessary capabilities to effectively combat Al Shabaab.
“Somalia of 2023 is not Somalia of 1992,” he emphasised, inviting the international community to acknowledge the country’s remarkable transformation and growth over the years.
The President further underlined the measures already implemented to improve the oversight and management of weapons and ammunition within the country. He implored the UNSC delegates to advocate for the total removal of the arms embargo, stating that such a move would enable Somalia to assert its sovereignty, effectively combat terrorism, and build a peaceful and prosperous future for the nation.
The President’s impassioned plea concluded on a hopeful note, “Together, let us seize this opportunity to unlock the full potential of Somalia, to create an inclusive and prosperous society, and to build a world where peace and security prevail.”
The international community, especially the UNSC, now keenly awaits their response to President Mohamud’s plea for support in their fight against terrorism.
