His Excellency Prime Minister Abdi Farah Shirdon today discussed with Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni on how to advance the African Union Mission in Somalia, transform the Somali Army to defeat Al-Shabaab and improve security more broadly across Somalia.
The Prime Minister stated the urgency to move forward and advance security while defeating and freeing more territory from Al-Shabaab. The terrorist group was already weakened and should be eliminated from the region, said the Prime Minister. He also stated that security is at the top of the country’s agenda and the first pillar of the six main pillars the government has established to rebuild the Somali nation.
“Security is our top priority and we are working toward achieving a stable and safe country with the support and sacrifice of AMISOM member states – with Uganda in the lead,” Prime Minister Said. “Al-Shabaab enslaved our people especially a large number of our young generation as child solders, forcing unwanted marriage on young and under-age girls and brainwashing some to commit terrorist acts. Therefore we have an obligation to save them from these criminals,” the Prime Minister said.
With the arms embargo lifted Prime Minister Shirdon and President Museveni discussed systematic ways to build the Somali National Army and steadily move forward in the process of defeating Al-Shabaab and pacifying Somalia in general. They both admitted the urgency and the need to move quickly in fighting for the freedom of many Somalis under the control of Al-Shabaab.
“We understand the need to guard the roads, villages, towns and coastal areas while protecting civilians and we are at your disposal to achieve full security in Somalia,” President Museveni said. The President reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment in stabilizing Somalia directly and through the African Union mission and pledged more support.
Ugandan troops make up the biggest percentage of AMISOM. Close collaboration between the two counties will advance the regional security and contribute to the elimination of Al-Shabaab.
The Prime Minister and his delegation are scheduled to travel to Burundi, a key contributor to the AMISOM. After visiting Burundi the Prime Minister will conclude his landmark regional trip on Saturday.
ENDS
Ahmed Adan
Prime Minister’s Media Office
Mogadishu, Somalia
Email: media@opm.gov.so
Mobile: +252 (0) 616 440 028
Use Facebook to Comment on this Post
