Somalia Advances Defence Reforms, Seeks Stronger Oversight of Security Institutions

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia is seeking to strengthen civilian oversight, transparency and accountability within its defence institutions as the government advances legislation aimed at establishing a clearer legal framework for managing the country’s security sector.

Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi said on Tuesday that building professional and accountable defence institutions was essential to protecting Somalia’s sovereignty, improving national security and strengthening state institutions.

Speaking at a meeting of the Steering Committee for the Security, Justice, Governance and Accountability Project (SJGAP) in Mogadishu, Fiqi said lasting security depended not only on military operations but also on effective leadership, transparent administration and responsible management of defence institutions.

He highlighted the proposed National Defence Bill, which has already received Cabinet approval and is currently under consideration by the Federal Parliament, describing it as an important step towards establishing a legal foundation for national defence and strengthening institutional accountability.

The proposed legislation comes as Somalia continues efforts to reform its security institutions while confronting persistent threats from Al-Shabaab and assuming greater responsibility for its national security.

For years, the country has relied on international military assistance and African Union-led peacekeeping missions to support operations against the militant group. The ongoing transition towards Somali-led security operations has increased pressure on the government to develop institutions capable of managing defence planning, personnel, resources and operational responsibilities.

Beyond battlefield operations, security sector reform has become a central component of Somalia’s broader state-building agenda, with emphasis on improving coordination, strengthening oversight and ensuring that defence institutions operate within established legal frameworks.

Fiqi stressed that reforms must remain under Somali leadership and reflect national priorities rather than depend entirely on external assistance.

He also acknowledged the European Union and Adam Smith International for their support in strengthening Somalia’s security and justice institutions, saying international partnerships should contribute to sustainable reforms.

The meeting brought together Internal Security Minister Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail, members of the Federal Parliament, the European Union ambassador and other senior officials.

The discussions come as Somali authorities seek to consolidate security gains, improve institutional governance and establish a more sustainable national defence system capable of responding to the country’s long-term security challenges.