Somali Defence Minister Rebukes Trump Over Remarks on Somalis

GOOBJOOG NEWS|MOGADISHU: Somalia’s Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi has criticised former U.S. President Donald Trump over comments he made about Somalis, saying the remarks misrepresented a people known for their resilience and contribution both at home and abroad.

In a message to Reuters, Fiqi said Trump should focus on meeting the promises he has made to American voters “rather than busying himself with Somalia.” His response follows remarks Trump made during a campaign stop, in which he used Somalis as an example in a broader political argument, sparking backlash from Somali communities in the United States and elsewhere.

Fiqi said Somalia values its longstanding security cooperation with the United States, especially Washington’s military support against al-Shabaab. He called the partnership important but said it should not be undermined by political rhetoric that maligns Somalis.

“The Somali people are known around the world for their hard work,” he said. “They are known for their resilience in the face of adversity. They have faced hardships and many enemies, including those who deny their existence, kill them, humiliate and insult them.”

He added that Somalis continue to rebuild their country despite decades of conflict, and their diaspora plays a vital role in economic stability and global entrepreneurship.

Fiqi’s comments join a wave of criticism from Somali officials, community leaders and rights advocates who say Trump’s remarks risk fuelling hostility toward immigrant communities in the U.S. and misrepresent the realities of Somalia’s progress.

The U.S. remains one of Somalia’s closest security partners, supporting counterterrorism operations, training Somali forces and funding stabilisation efforts. Somali officials emphasise that while political disagreements may arise, cooperation between the two countries remains essential.