Somalia’s National Conference on Arms Management: A Step Towards Greater Security

Mogadishu (AX) — Recently, Somalia concluded a significant two-day national conference focused on arms and ammunition management, leaving many to ponder the pivotal issues at hand. Held in the vibrant capital of Mogadishu, the conference aimed to address the escalating threat from improvised explosive devices (IEDs), primarily employed by Al-Shabaab militants. Indeed, in a nation where the echoes of conflict still resonate, the stakes could not be higher.

The conference opened its doors on a Monday morning, welcoming an array of influential leaders from both Somalia’s federal and regional governments as well as international partners dedicated to supporting security sector reforms. This gathering, organized by the Office of the National Security Advisor and spearheaded by Defense Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, was not just another bureaucratic event—it was a call to action. Participants aimed to hasten the implementation of the National Weapons and Ammunition Management (WAM) Strategy, which spans the years 2025 to 2030.

The WAM strategy is more than a set of guidelines; it’s a comprehensive roadmap curated to standardize arms control procedures. This includes crucial initiatives such as the digitization of firearm registration and marking ammunition, as well as imposing restrictions on materials commonly used in the assembly of roadside bombs and other explosive devices. Watching the exchange of ideas during the conference, one couldn’t help but feel a sense of urgency. What would it take for these strategies to become effective in practice?

Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama, who had the honor of officially closing the event, made a compelling statement regarding the federal government’s commitment to combating the illegal flow of arms. “Weapons management is central to Somalia’s security,” he declared. It’s not simply about governance; it’s about the safety and future of communities across the nation. How many more families have to suffer before effective systems are put in place?

“The DanQaran government is strengthening laws, policies, and enforcement systems to address the threat posed by illegal arms. We will continue working with our international partners to build reliable systems to track and control weapons,” Jama continued. However, this commitment raises another question: Will policy changes translate into actionable outcomes on the ground?

The gathering was graced by several notable speakers, including Deputy Minister of Internal Security Gen. Sulub Ahmed Firin and National Security Advisor Hussein Sheikh-Ali. These individuals are not merely titles; they represent the backbone of Somalia’s security infrastructure. As they navigated through discussions centered on arms trafficking, a consensus emerged—to bolster cooperation in dismantling networks that fuel extremism. Isn’t collaboration an answer to a problem that has plagued the nation for too long?

Moreover, there was a pointed emphasis on enhancing the national capacity for explosive ordnance disposal. This gap is critical, especially given that Al-Shabaab continues to launch attacks against both civilians and military personnel using these devastating methods. The haunting images of those caught in the line of fire linger in the air, making it clear that urgent action is needed.

As Somalia prepares for the transition of the African Union’s mission from ATMIS to a Somali-led African Union Security Support Mission (AUSSS), this shift symbolizes not just a change in operational oversight but also a crucial opportunity for increased autonomy in managing national security. Could this transition be the turning point Somalia desperately needs?

International partners, including technical experts and donor agencies, stepped up to pledge unwavering support for Somalia’s arms management initiatives. Their commitment focuses on advancing digital inventory systems designed to improve transparency and meet global standards. But here’s the crux: Will this external support be enough, or does true progress necessitate internal commitment and dedication?

In conclusion, the recent conference stands as a pivotal moment for Somalia, a chance to not only rethink its approach to arms management but also to invoke a sense of shared responsibility among its people. As the nation stands at a crossroads, one can’t help but ask: What legacy will this generation leave behind? With collaborative and deliberate action, they might just be laying the foundations for a more secure and unified future.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international – Monitoring.