Defence Minister Fiqi Says Qatar-Trained Officers to Boost Military Capability

GOOBJOOG NEWS | DOHA: Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi has said that newly graduated Somali officers trained in Qatar would strengthen the operational capacity of the Somali National Army, as Mogadishu seeks to professionalise its forces and improve national security.

Fiqi attended the graduation ceremony of joint military officers at Ahmed bin Mohamed Military College in Doha, where Somali personnel completed academic and field training alongside officers from other countries. The ceremony was presided over by Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

Officials said the graduates had received advanced training in leadership, military science and operational planning, skills they expect will enhance command effectiveness and combat readiness once the officers return home.

“These officers will play a key role in strengthening the army and improving its ability to protect the country,” the defence minister said, thanking Qatar for its continued support in training and capacity-building for Somali forces.

The Commander of the Somali National Army, Major General Odowaa Yusuf Rage, also attended the event, underlining the importance the government places on developing a professional military leadership as part of broader security sector reforms.

Somalia has relied on partnerships with allies, including Qatar, to rebuild its armed forces after decades of conflict, as it intensifies operations against Islamist militants and works to establish durable national security institutions.