Al-Shabaab Threat Slowing Down Growth in Key Sectors in Somalia, Minister Says

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Federal government of Somalia’s  Minister of Livestock, Forestry and Range of the Federal Government of Somalia Hassan Hussein Eeley has said the security threats posed by the Al-Shabaab has a negative impact on the country’s economy.

The Minister noted that the federal government has been intensifying its war on Al-Shabaab particularly in rural areas of the country so as to boost production in agricultural, livestock, and fish production sectors.

Minister Eeley noted that agriculture, animal husbandry, and fishing are the three sectors with significant economic potential but have not achieved their full potential due to the security challenges posed by the militant group.

“As long as the war on Al-Shabaab has not been concluded decisively, farming, livestock keeping and fishing cannot be effectively practiced. There is need for a collective effort by the government and the Somali people to protect these crucial sectors from the effects of conflict for the benefit of the nation,” he said.

The federal government of Somalia has declared war against the militants which has seen various areas previously controlled by the group reclaimed and hence enabling citizens to resume their normal activities.

“The government will continue waging war against the militants. We are also committed to continue supporting farmers, pastoralists and fishermen to resume normal operations and contribute to the nation’s economy,” added the minister.

The government’s focus on agriculture, livestock, and fishing as pillars of economic growth reflects a strategic approach to leverage the country’s natural resources for sustainable development.