Somalia Steps Up Security Reform as President Visits Defense Ministry

GOOBJOOH NEWS | MOGADISHU: Federal Republic of Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Thursday visited the Ministry of Defense in Mogadishu, reaffirming his government’s commitment to rebuilding national security institutions as the country intensifies its campaign against insurgent threats.

The visit marked a visible step in Somalia’s broader effort to overhaul its defense sector, a cornerstone of President Mohamud’s national stabilization agenda. During the tour, he met with the Minister of Defense, senior military commanders, and top national security advisors to assess progress and accelerate reform.

Officials presented a detailed report on the current security situation and outlined new strategies aimed at enhancing the operational capacity of the Somali National Army (SNA) and other key institutions.

“Rebuilding strong, accountable security institutions is essential for Somalia’s peace and sovereignty,” Mohamud said, according to a statement from Villa Somalia. He reiterated the urgency of professionalizing the armed forces to better confront threats posed by the al Qaeda-linked group al Shabaab.

The president also praised the sacrifices of Somali troops on the frontlines, calling them “pillars of our national resilience,” and stressed that bolstering the country’s defense architecture remains a top priority.

Somalia, recovering from decades of conflict and state collapse, has made gradual gains in restoring government authority, particularly through security sector reform backed by international partners. Yet challenges remain as insurgents continue to launch deadly attacks across the country.

President Mohamud’s visit signals a renewed push to embed lasting institutional strength within Somalia’s security framework, a move seen as vital for the country’s long-term peace and self-reliance.