Somali Cabinet Approves Key Bills on Banking, Defence, Children’s Rights and Education

GOOBJOOG NEWS|MOGADISHU: Somalia’s cabinet has approved a series of major bills and policy reforms aimed at strengthening the country’s financial system, security institutions, social protection framework and education sector.

At its weekly meeting chaired by Prime Minister Hamsa Abdi Barre, the cabinet endorsed amendments to the Central Bank of Somalia law, a move the government says is intended to enhance financial stability, improve oversight and strengthen transparency within the banking sector.

Ministers also approved the National Defence Bill, which expands the mandate and clarifies the responsibilities of Somalia’s security institutions as the country continues efforts to rebuild and professionalise its armed forces.

In the social sector, the cabinet passed the Children’s Rights Bill and the Family Affairs Bill, two pieces of legislation aimed at protecting children, strengthening families and filling long-standing legal gaps. Officials said both bills had gone through extensive consultations, including reviews by religious scholars, the Attorney General’s Office and the Ministry of Constitution. The cabinet approved the laws while directing relevant ministries to refine certain terms before implementation.

The cabinet also approved the policy and regulations for the National Education Development Fund, designed to improve the quality of education and create sustainable financing mechanisms to support Somali students.

During the same meeting, ministers received a briefing from the Ministry of Interior, Federal Affairs and Reconciliation on preparations for the upcoming local council elections in Mogadishu, including polling station readiness, security arrangements and voter registration progress.

Prime Minister Barre commended cabinet members for engaging with communities and supporting the electoral process, emphasising the importance of close interaction between government institutions and the public.

The approvals mark one of the most significant legislative packages passed by the cabinet in recent months, as Somalia navigates political transition while advancing institutional and legal reforms.