President Mohamud hosts banquet for scholars, announces integration of clerics into National Army.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Tuesday evening hosted a state banquet in honor of the scholars who attended the 3rd National Conference of Somali Scholars, praising their crucial role in promoting peace, countering extremist ideologies, and strengthening national unity.

The two day event, held in Mogadishu, marked the conclusion of the two-day conference that brought together religious scholars from across the country to discuss national priorities and the contribution of Islamic scholarship to state-building.

In his address, President Mohamud lauded the scholars for their historical and ongoing role in guiding Somali society, particularly in efforts to counter radicalization and uphold moderate Islamic teachings.

He emphasized that scholars remain a central pillar in the fight against extremism, noting that their voice and influence are essential in restoring stability and unity across Somalia.

The President reiterated his “administration’s commitment to deepening collaboration between the government and religious leaders across all sectors” .

In a significant announcement, President Hassan Sheikh declared that scholars will be formally integrated into the Somali National Army (SNA), where they will serve as moral and spiritual guides to the forces.

The move, he said, is intended to strengthen discipline, enhance morale, and instill ethical values within the military as it continues nationwide operations against groups threatening national security.

The President also highlighted the importance of maintaining a united front against violent extremism and called on scholars to continue providing leadership and counsel to the Somali public.

The conference, now in its third edition, is part of the government’s broader initiative to institutionalize the role of scholars in national development and policymaking. The gathering focused on religious moderation, national cohesion, social reforms, and the evolving role of Islamic scholarship in modern governance.

The government is expected to outline frameworks for the new integration plan in the coming weeks.

Mustaqbal