Mogadishu, Somalia – H.E Daud Aweis Jama, the Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism of the Federal Government of Somalia, emphasized the significant advantages of lifting the UN’s 31-year arms embargo on Somalia. This decision is expected to have a transformative impact on the country’s security and governance.
According to Somali National News Agency, The United Nations Security Council voted to lift the arms embargo on Somalia, with 14 members voting in favor and one abstention. The Somali government expressed its gratitude for this historic decision, embodied in Resolution 2713. The move is anticipated to play a crucial role in strengthening both security and governance within the country.
Key advantages outlined by Minister Jama include:
Counterterrorism and security: With Somalia facing ongoing security challenges, particularly from extremist groups, access to modern arms and equipment is vital for effectively combating these threats. The lifting of the embargo will bolster Somalia’s efforts to maintain internal security.
National defense: The resolution will enable the Somali government to modernize and strengthen its armed forces, reinforcing the country’s capacity to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Law enforcement and border control: Equipping law enforcement agencies and bolstering border security are essential for combating illicit arms trafficking, terrorism, and other transnational threats.
State-building and governance: Enhancing the government’s ability to provide security is crucial for establishing stable governance, improving service delivery, and fostering economic development.
Resolution 2713 also includes a continued embargo on extremist groups like Al-Shabab, known as the Kharijites of Al-Shabab, underscoring the ongoing commitment to fighting extremism and fostering peace in Somalia. Minister Jama hailed the UN Security Council’s decision to reimpose the embargo on Al-Shabab, highlighting its significance in the broader effort to combat extremism and promote stability in the region.