MOGADISHU – Somalia has been actively engaging in international diplomacy and development efforts, as evidenced by recent activities involving its government officials. These efforts come amidst various challenges the country is facing, including natural disasters and security threats.
According to Somali National News Agency, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud returned to the country after participating in an international conference on preventing food shortages in London. During the conference, he emphasized Somalia’s potential role in global efforts to eradicate hunger and ensure energy and agricultural crops. President Mohamud also met with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, discussing the redirection of emergency aid projects towards development for long-term benefits for the Somali people.
Furthermore, the British government pledged a hundred million dollars to finance development projects, economic infrastructure, and agricultural development in Somalia. This funding aligns with Somalia’s ongoing efforts to boost its economy and infrastructure.
Prime Minister Hamsa Abdi Barre visited Dolow District in Gedo, severely affected by devastating floods. He assured that the government would rebuild the bridges destroyed by the floods. The Prime Minister also visited the capital stabilization force, highlighting the government’s focus on security and stability.
In the realm of international relations, Somalia and Burundi issued a joint communique following President Mohamud’s visit to Bujumbura. Additionally, Somalia’s National Teachers’s Day was celebrated across the country, underscoring the importance of education in nation-building.
Efforts to address the recent flood crisis were evident, with Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama chairing a meeting focused on relief efforts. The Minister of Finance, Mr. Bihi Iman Cige, chaired an international investment conference to foster development in agriculture and fishing. He also attended a meeting on anti-money laundering and financing of terrorist organizations.
The Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism, along with the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, launched the Somali Tourism and Hospitality Report in Mogadishu. This initiative is part of efforts to develop the tourism sector as a source of economic growth.
In security matters, the armed forces court executed a man for murder, and the Puntland State Criminal Investigation Team foiled a plot by the Daesh group in Bosaso. Military operations against the Al Shabab group resulted in the deaths of several militants, demonstrating the ongoing battle against terrorism in the region.
The country also faced challenges with the flooding of the Shabelle River, causing damage to infrastructure and difficult conditions for families in affected areas. In response, the Somali National Disaster Management Agency dispatched planes with humanitarian aid to support flood victims.
The Jubbaland police force made significant drug seizures, highlighting efforts to combat narcotics trafficking. Additionally, hundreds of local heroes were mobilized in Mudug region to combat the Al Shabab terror group.
Somalia is expected to officially join the East African Community by the end of the week, marking a significant step in regional integration and cooperation.