Residents point to Security gains, urge greater support for Somalia’s Army

Some members of the public in Mogadishu who spoke to Mustaqbal Media said that the Federal Government of Somalia’s forces are capable of taking over the full responsibility for national security.

They pointed to recent improvements in the security situation and argued that Somalia’s own security forces can manage key areas of protection, including the safety of the leadership, the presidential palace and security operations in the regions of the country.

The interviewees also called for a change in how resources are allocated. They suggested that the funds currently provided to the African Union Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) should be directed toward the Somali National Forces noting that over several years AUSSOM has conducted operations in various parts of Somalia.

According to these civilians, there is an emerging shift in Somalia’s security approach, driven by the ability and readiness of Somali forces to handle duties that were previously carried out primarily by international partners.

They further emphasized the need to reduce the difference in pay and benefits between Somali forces and those of the African Union, arguing that the disparity is not sufficiently tied to operational performance.

They urged the public and authorities to support the Somali national army and stand behind it as the country moves toward greater self-reliance in security.

Mustaqbal