Djibouti, Somalia Sign Troop Agreement to Boost Regional Security

GOOBJOOG NEWS | DJIBOUTI CITY: Somalia and Djibouti have signed a Status of Forces Agreement (SoFA) that formalizes the legal basis for Djiboutian troops operating in Somalia, reinforcing security cooperation between the two Horn of Africa neighbors.

The pact was signed in Djibouti by Somalia’s Defence Minister Ahmed Moallin Fiqi and Djibouti’s Acting Defence Minister Ali Hassan Bahdoon, in the presence of senior military and government officials from both sides.

The agreement outlines the framework for deploying additional Djiboutian forces under Somalia’s stabilization efforts and provides protocols for joint operations, command coordination, and legal protections.

Officials said the deal reflects mutual priorities in combating terrorism and strengthening regional peace efforts. Djibouti is a key troop contributor to the African Union-led mission in Somalia, and the new SoFA is expected to facilitate an expanded role amid Somalia’s gradual transition to national security leadership.

“This is a step forward in deepening the partnership between our two nations and stabilizing Somalia through Somali-led processes,” said Fiqi at the ceremony.

The agreement comes at a critical time as Somalia pushes to consolidate gains against al-Shabaab militants and shift security responsibilities to national forces.

Longtime allies, Djibouti and Somalia share close historical, cultural, and strategic ties. The deal also signals Djibouti’s continued support for Somalia’s reconstruction and sovereignty.