(17 Mar 2025) MOGADISHU (Halqabsi News) – Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre announced a cabinet reshuffle on Monday, appointing new ministers and deputy ministers to key posts in what his office called an effort to “strengthen governance and accelerate service delivery” amid ongoing security operations and economic reforms.
The reshuffle, which includes five new ministers and six deputy ministers, focuses on critical sectors such as defence, commerce, and transportation:
- Jibril Abdirashi Haji Abdi: New Minister of Defence, replacing Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, who oversaw recent anti-Al-Shabab offensives and has been reassigned as Minister of Ports & Maritime Transport.
- Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur: Moves from Defence to lead Ports & Maritime Transport, a sector critical to Somalia’s economy and regional security. Analysts note his defence background could signal a heightened focus on securing maritime infrastructure.
- Mohamud Ahmed Adan (Gesod): Appointed Minister of Commerce & Industry, tasked with advancing economic reforms.
- Mohamed Farah Nuuh: Takes helm at Transport & Civil Aviation, pivotal to Somalia’s infrastructure revival.
Deputy ministers were also named for ports, energy, youth affairs, and internal security, including Sulub Ahmed Firin as Deputy Internal Security Minister.
A statement from the Prime Minister’s office said the changes aim to “enhance efficiency and accountability” as Somalia contends with dual challenges: a military campaign against Al-Shabab and efforts to secure debt relief through economic restructuring.
The defence shakeup comes as Somali forces, backed by African Union troops and US airstrikes, escalate operations to reclaim rural areas from Al-Shabab. Nuur’s transfer to Ports & Maritime Transport follows recent concerns over smuggling routes and port security, which remain vital for trade and stability.
Halqabsi News
