Somali cabinet endorses new policy on Al-Shabaab defectors

Somalia’s cabinet has endorsed new of policy on Al-Shabaab defectors barely three days after thirty former Al-Shabaab combatants completed an intensive rehabilitation programme in the Baidoa Rehabilitation Centre in South West State of Somalia.

The policy was submitted by the ministry for internal security affairs in a bid to attract more Al-Shabaab defectors and block the recruiting new members for Al-Shabaab group.

The move comes a day after Somali Commandos Division conducted special operation in GalKayo town in Mudug region where 5 Al-Shabaab member including foreign commander captured.

On Wednesday, thirty former Al-Shabaab combatants have graduated from the Baidoa Rehabilitation Centre.

The ex-combatants, who received vocational training and psychological support, expressed confidence, saying they were ready to contribute positively to the development of Somalia.

Ibrahim, a former Al-Shabaab combatant, said he was ready to turn a new chapter in life, thanks to the Baidoa Rehabilitation Centre.

“We received full education. I was taught carpentry and tailoring. I can sew my clothes and those of my family. I can do carpentry work with ease, and make a chair, a bed and other household furniture. I am perfectly suited for such work. I can say I am ready to face the world,” said Ibrahim, one of the 30 graduates.

Al Shabaab was pushed out of Mogadishu by the African Union peacekeeping force AMISOM in 2011. But it has remained a potent threat in Somalia, launching frequent attacks aimed at overthrowing the Western-backed government.