Poor security framework a threat to AMISOM/SNA gains, EU warns

The European Union, EU has lamented Somalia’s slow efforts in developing a national security architecture essential for sustainable security noting that the this has clawed back efforts by Amisom and Somali National Army towards restoration of stability in newly recovered areas.

The EU which is a major donor to the African Union Mission to Somalia, Amisom called on the Somali government to prioritize the fight against the militant group Al-Shabaab and to focus on speedy, coordinated and sustainable integration of regional forces.

Recapture

The call comes amid instances where Al-Shabaab has retaken some towns already recovered by joint Amisom and SNA forces.

“Security and stabilisation can only become sustainable if supported by an effective SNA and an integrated civilian stabilisation effort, including SPF, followed by a quick deployment of a civil administration,” read the EU statement in part.

Somalia announced last it launching a military integration programme which would see regional administrations contribute troops to the national army. Puntland state pledged to send 3000 troops to the SNA command.

The EU has also called on the government of Somalia to accelerate the implementation of a realistic security sector budget, as well as to increase transparency, accountability and civilian oversight. It noted that poor financial accountability and absence of payroll reform risk undermining current achievements.

UN Report

The UN Monitoring Group for Somalia and Eritrea, UNMGES last year published a damning report indicting Somali army officials of inflating troop figures and embezzling funds bound for salaries.

An exit strategy for Amisom was also raised by the EU. It has also noted the need for swift implementation of plans paving way for the end of Amisom’s tenure in Somalia in 2017. This involves the reinforcement of the Somali Police Force.

The Council report comes as the 6th Ministerial High Level Partnership Forum (HLPF) on Somalia is set to open in Istanbul, Turkey next week.