Government targets leaner security arrangements as it seeks stronger institutions, improved public confidence and better resource management.
MOGADISHU, Somalia – The Federal Government of Somalia has announced plans to reduce the number of armed security escorts assigned to state officials as part of broader reforms aimed at improving security management and strengthening public order.
The proposal was unveiled during a high-level security consultation conference between the Federal Government and Federal Member States held in Mogadishu, bringing together security ministers, senior security officials and government representatives.
The two-day conference is focused on addressing key security challenges facing the country, including reforms in internal security, strengthening maritime security and developing long-term solutions to persistent insecurity in some regions.
Speaking during the opening of the conference, Somalia’s Internal Security Minister Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail Fartaag said the government wants to establish a more efficient security system by reducing excessive deployment of security personnel for individual officials.
Fartaag said the current practice of large convoys and multiple escort vehicles for government officials should be replaced with a more structured security arrangement.
“We hope that a minister will be protected by two officers carrying pistols, and the same should apply to members of parliament. We do not want a commander or officer moving around with a convoy of vehicles, and we also do not want a minister traveling with two or three escort vehicles,” Fartaag said.
The minister explained that the reforms are aimed at building stronger security institutions, ensuring better use of security resources and increasing public confidence in the country’s security system.
The government believes reducing unnecessary security details will allow security forces to focus more effectively on protecting citizens and responding to national security priorities.
The conference is expected to conclude with recommendations on improving Somalia’s internal and maritime security frameworks as the country continues efforts to strengthen state institutions and address ongoing security threats.
