Somalia Launches Emergency Preparedness Initiatives to Counter Al-Shabab Threat

Somalia Launches Emergency Preparedness Initiatives to Counter Al-Shabab Threat

On September 20, 2023, Somalia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Salah Ahmed Jama, launched the Somalia Emergency Preparedness and Response Assessment and the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) Investment Requirements Report. These initiatives, introduced in Mogadishu, are intended to bolster the country’s resilience against the al-Shabab terrorist group. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the importance of these programs and encouraged the Somali population to play an active role in restoring peace and stability to their homeland.

The projects are a collaborative effort between the National Disaster Management Agency (SODMA) and the World Bank. The primary objective is to address the immediate needs of the armed forces and local communities actively engaged in military operations against al-Shabab. The timing of the initiative is critical as it coincides with the ongoing military offensive and the commencement of the second phase of the planned withdrawal of the African Union Transmission Mission (ATMIS) in Somalia.

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Transition of Military Bases

Earlier in the week, Burundian troops transferred their base in the town of Biyo Adde, situated in the Middle Shabelle region, to government forces. This marked the first of 10 forward operating bases scheduled to be handed over. By the end of September, the scheduled drawdown will reduce the AU peacekeeping force to 13,586 soldiers. This follows the first round of the drawdown completed in June, during which 2,000 soldiers exited the country.

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The launch of the Somalia Emergency Preparedness and Response Assessment and the NEOC Investment Requirements Report is a crucial step towards strengthening the fight against al-Shabab and promoting stability in Somalia. This development is particularly significant in light of the ongoing troop withdrawal by the African Union. This process necessitates the enhancement of local military capabilities and increased community engagement to maintain national security.

The success of these initiatives relies largely on the combined efforts of the Somali government, armed forces, and the local population. Their collective resolve will determine the country’s ability to withstand threats posed by al-Shabab and to create a secure and stable environment for its citizens.

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