Mogadishu, Somalia – The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, has provided a comprehensive overview of the nation’s progress and the challenges it faces in a recent interview on BBC’s “Focus on Africa” program. In a wide-ranging discussion, President Mohamud addressed the ongoing fight against terrorism, recent diplomatic victories, and the country’s position on key regional and international issues.
Three-Pronged Strategy Against Al-Shabaab
President Mohamud outlined a multi-front strategy in the government’s war against the militant groups Al-Shabaab and Islamic State. He explained that the campaign is not limited to military engagement but also includes ideological and financial warfare. The government has actively engaged in building a national army while fighting on the ground, a strategy that has led to the liberation of numerous towns and cities.
In the fight against Al-Shabaab’s ideology, the President noted that major Somali scholars have been mobilized to educate the public that the group’s actions are un-Islamic. Additionally, a financial offensive has been launched to cut off the group’s funding by closing associated bank accounts and mobile money services. President Mohamud asserted that these efforts have weakened Al-Shabaab, making the group significantly less powerful than it was two years ago. He also mentioned that his survival of five assassination attempts over the last two years is a sign of the group’s desperation.
Diplomatic Achievements as a Sign of Progress
The President highlighted several diplomatic achievements that he presented as evidence of Somalia’s advancing stability and renewed international standing. He cited the lifting of the arms embargo after 32 years, the achievement of nearly $5 billion in debt relief, and the country’s acceptance into the East Africa Community. He noted that Somalia’s recent success in securing a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the first time since 1972 is a clear manifestation of this progress. President Mohamud stated that these milestones prove that Somalia is gaining ground and defeating Al-Shabaab.
Navigating Regional Tensions and Maintaining Sovereignty
The interview also touched on several contentious foreign policy matters. Regarding the port deal between Ethiopia and Somaliland, President Mohamud maintained that the agreement is a direct violation of Somalia’s unity, which he described as “sacrosanct”. He stated that dialogue and a focus on mutual interests are the only viable path forward.
When questioned about the potential for Somalia to become a proxy in the dispute between Ethiopia and Egypt over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), the President dismissed the idea, stating that Somalia has good relations with both nations and is “fed up of war”. He also expressed his disapproval of the US travel ban that had previously labeled Somalia a “terrorist safe haven,” arguing that terrorists are being actively challenged and not protected within the country.
