Mogadishu, SONNA – In a ceremony presided over by Deputy Prime Minister Saleh Ahmed Jama, Somalia’s Ministry of Defense witnessed a formal handover of leadership on Thursday. The outgoing Minister of Defense, Hon. Jibril Abdirashid Hajji, officially transferred responsibilities to the newly appointed Minister, Ambassador Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, marking a significant transition in the nation’s security leadership.
During his inaugural address, Minister Fiqi outlined his vision for the ministry, emphasizing its critical role in safeguarding Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. “The Ministry of Defense stands as a pillar of our nationalism – the institution charged with protecting our independence, unity, and statehood,” he declared. The new minister identified three immediate priorities for his tenure: intensifying the fight against Khawarij groups, enhancing the capacity and professionalism of Somalia’s armed forces, and implementing comprehensive defense policies to consolidate recent security gains.
Minister Fiqi issued a passionate appeal to the Somali people, calling for unified national support in the ongoing campaign against terrorism. “I urge all patriots who love this nation and oppose the Khawarij to join hands in supporting our armed forces in this just war,” he stated, while also expressing gratitude to international partners supporting Somalia’s security efforts.
Deputy Prime Minister Jama commended the seamless transition, highlighting it as evidence of growing institutional maturity within Somalia’s government. The ceremony concluded with acknowledgments of outgoing Minister Hajji’s contributions, particularly his role in recent military successes against al-Shabaab. Observers note that Minister Fiqi’s extensive diplomatic experience, including his previous role as Minister for foreign affairs and Ambassador to Ethiopia, positions him well to navigate both the military and diplomatic dimensions of Somalia’s complex security challenges.
The leadership transition comes at a crucial moment as Somali forces, supported by international partners, continue operations against al-Shabaab while simultaneously completing the phased drawdown of ATMIS peacekeeping troops. Minister Fiqi’s appointment signals continuity in President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s comprehensive approach to national security, combining military pressure with institutional reform.
