Mogadishu: 22 June, 2025 – The Ministry of Defence of the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS), in line with its constitutional mandate to protect its vulnerable people and to prevent the recruitment and use of children during armed conflict by the national Constitution and the international conventions to which Somalia is a signatory.
Speaking on behalf of the Federal Government, the Ministry of Defence extends heartfelt congratulations to the Somali people and the Somali Security Forces on the historic announcement made by the United Nations on 17 June 2025, officially delisting the parties involved in the recruitment of children in armed conflict. This milestone marks tangible progress in Somalia’s reform of its security institutions.
This significant achievement is the result of close collaboration between the Federal Government of Somalia and the United Nations, particularly UNICEF and UNTMIS, under the framework of the National Action Plan on the Protection of Children in Armed Conflict. The plan was implemented in line with Somalia’s Constitution and international legal obligations relating to child protection.
As the chair of the National Committee on the Protection of Children in Armed Conflict, the Ministry of Defence commends the critical efforts of committee members and UN partners. This well-coordinated partnership has strengthened child protection mechanisms, enabling Somalia to overcome complex challenges in this regard.
The Ministry of Defence remains fully committed to upholding all obligations and agreements between the FGS and the United Nations on the protection of children in armed conflict. We will continue to lead efforts to build a professional, accountable national army free from any violations against the Somali people and to defeat the terrorist group Al-Shabaab (Khawaarij), whose cruelty has long threatened the lives and future of Somali children.
