South West State President urges citizens and security agencies to prioritize peace.

The President of Somalia’s South West State, Abdiasis Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen, has called on citizens and security institutions to intensify efforts in safeguarding peace and stability across the region.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of South West State’s Peace Week, Laftagareen stressed that security remains the foundation for investment, trade, and education. “The first priority for economic opportunities, business, and education is to strengthen security,” he said, underscoring that without peace, progress cannot be achieved.

The president accused the militant group al-Shabaab of undermining security in the state, while commending security forces and local communities for their continued cooperation in countering threats. He emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in overcoming challenges to peace.

“The wisdom of peace is that it must reach all Somalis. This country has been weakened by poor leadership and spoilers of peace, who have become obstacles to governance and development. We can only overcome them through a united response,” Laftagareen declared.

He concluded by urging both citizens and security agencies to translate discussions held during Peace Week into concrete actions that would advance stability and development across South West State.

Mustaqbal