Federal Government Unveils Strategy to Tighten Weapons Control Amid Rising Security Threats

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: The Federal Government of Somalia has launched a landmark national conference on arms and explosives control in Mogadishu, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding national security and strengthening oversight of state-held weaponry.

Opened on Monday, the two-day gathering brings together federal and regional security officials, alongside international partners, in a coordinated push to implement the government’s Weapons and Ammunition Management (WAM) Strategy 2025–2033.

The conference, led by the Office of National Security, is a critical step in the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance professionalism within the Somali National Armed Forces and prevent the diversion of arms to terrorist groups.

Minister of Defence Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, who delivered the keynote address, called the WAM strategy a “binding framework that will modernize our forces and tighten national control over weapons flows.”

“We are committed to building a professional army, and that starts with disciplined weapons management. The Somali government is taking firm action to ensure no arms fall into the hands of those who threaten our national peace,” said Minister Fiqi.

He highlighted the need for mobile arms storage units to better serve troops operating in remote or high-risk areas, particularly those confronting Al-Shabaab in active combat zones.

Recent security challenges, including militant raids on military outposts, have further underscored the importance of fast-tracking government-led reforms in arms accountability.

Participants praised the Somali government’s proactive leadership in organizing the forum and its transparent approach to security sector reform. The event also reflected growing cooperation between Somalia and its international partners in advancing sustainable and secure arms management systems.

With the anticipated drawdown of African Union peacekeepers (ATMIS), Somali authorities say the country is well-positioned to assume full responsibility for its national security architecture, anchored in accountability, discipline, and coordination.