During the Somalia Security Sector Conference in New York, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud asserted that it is time for Somalia to assume full responsibility for its security, emphasising that the accomplishment of this goal would not only benefit Somalia but also contribute to regional and global peace and stability.
President Mohamud conveyed to conference delegates that the withdrawal of the African Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) signifies the progress made collaboratively in constructing a more stable Somalia with a robust security apparatus, actively working towards the complete transfer of security responsibilities to Somali forces.
Addressing the conference, President Mohamud reported the freezing of hundreds of al-Shabab-related bank accounts due to the country’s anti-money laundering and counter-financing terrorism policies. Ideologically, he stated, “We have mobilised local communities across Somalia to publicly reject militants and have united religious scholars who unanimously denounce the ideology and practises of al-Shabab, branding it as un-Islamic.”
Furthermore, he outlined a phased approach for developing capable, accountable, and cost-effective Somali security forces. President Mohamud welcomed the decision of the United Nations Security Council to lift the arms embargo on Somalia.
President Mohamud continued, highlighting the impact of climate shocks exacerbated by ongoing security challenges, hindering the development of resilient infrastructure and livelihoods. He emphasised the global nature of climate change and terrorism, expressing concern that local communities bear a disproportionate burden while global responsibility remains insufficient.
