Somalia’s National Security Adviser affirms arms management capabilities

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MOGADISHU, SOMALIA – Hussein Maallin, the National Security Adviser, asserted that the international community has recognized the Government of Somalia’s competence in arms management. Addressing concerns regarding the influx of arms following the lifting of the arms embargo, Maallin stated that Somalia has fulfilled the verification requirements, showcasing its ability in arms control.

Maallin highlighted that in September 2023, Somalia received full acknowledgment that it met the criteria for arms control. Subsequently, sanctions were lifted, indicating global trust in the Federal Government’s commitment to executing the arms management plan.

The Federal Government of Somalia, according to Maallin, is actively enforcing laws governing arms to curb their entry, especially large weapons that require specific expertise. Maallin emphasized, “The world has acknowledged that the government of Somalia has reached the capacity of managing weapons.” He clarified that weapons like tanks, which require specialized training, are not easily accessible.

The Security Adviser further explained, “Those big weapons that are withheld from us are not weapons that anyone can use because they need training. If I take a tank as an example, no one can drive it, have it, or guide it, and its purchase is not easy—it is something that the government can acquire at least.”

In a significant move, the People’s Assembly of the Federal Republic of Somalia has passed the first reading of the “Arms Control” law, underscoring the nation’s commitment to managing the entry and usage of weapons to safeguard the country.

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Xafiiska Wararka Qaranimo Online | Mogadishu, Somalia

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