Somali Cabinet Approves Business Registration Bill, Turkey Religious Affairs Agreement

GOOBJOOG NEWS|MOGADISHU: Somalia’s Cabinet on Thursday approved a draft law on business registration and licensing, as well as a memorandum of understanding with Turkey on religious affairs, during a meeting chaired by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.

According to a statement from the Presidency, the Cabinet discussed a range of issues, including the country’s security situation, ongoing independent elections, and Somalia’s democratic transition.

Ministers were briefed on recent military operations carried out by the Somali National Armed Forces, with the government saying the offensives had resulted in significant gains against Al-Shabaab. The statement did not provide further details on the operations.

The Cabinet also endorsed the Draft Business Registration and Licensing Bill, a measure aimed at strengthening the legal framework governing the registration and licensing of businesses in Somalia. The proposed legislation is expected to advance through the country’s legislative process before becoming law.

In addition, ministers approved a memorandum of understanding between the Presidency of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye (Diyanet) and Somalia’s Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs. The agreement is intended to enhance cooperation between the two institutions on matters relating to religious affairs.

The meeting comes as Somalia continues efforts to improve governance, strengthen state institutions, and implement reforms alongside ongoing security operations and preparations for expanded democratic elections across the country.