Somalia Pushes Accountability Reforms in Security Sector

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia is stepping up reforms to strengthen accountability and governance in its security sector, following a high-level review meeting with international partners.

Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi told the Somalia Security Sector Governance Review that progress in the sector must go beyond military operations to include stronger institutions and transparent systems.

The meeting, which brought together government officials, the World Bank and other partners, focused on reforms in legal frameworks, payroll systems, procurement controls and long-term sustainability of the armed forces.

Fiqi said the government had made progress in conducting a nationwide force census and biometric registration to verify personnel and establish a credible national registry.

He added that authorities are moving toward a system linking monthly personnel verification with payroll and deployment, aimed at ensuring salaries match active service.

Officials also discussed pension reforms and support systems for injured personnel, retirees and families of fallen soldiers.

Somalia has been working with international partners to reform its security institutions, as part of broader efforts to build a professional, accountable force and stabilise the country after years of conflict.