“Somalia’s President: We Are Defeating Al-Shabaab and Reclaiming Our Place in the World”

The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, has shared a detailed assessment of the country’s progress and ongoing challenges in an interview with BBC’s “Focus on Africa” program. The President addressed Somalia’s fight against terrorism, key diplomatic achievements, and the nation’s stance on pressing regional and international issues.

Three-Pronged Strategy Against Al-Shabaab

President Mohamud outlined the government’s multi-dimensional approach in its battle against Al-Shabaab and the Islamic State. He emphasized that the campaign goes beyond military action, also targeting ideology and financing. Alongside ground offensives, the government is focused on building a strong national army, which has led to the liberation of several towns and cities.

To counter extremist ideology, leading Somali scholars have been mobilized to educate the public that Al-Shabaab’s actions are contrary to Islam. On the financial front, authorities have frozen bank accounts and mobile money services linked to the group. Mohamud stated that these measures have significantly weakened Al-Shabaab compared to two years ago. He also pointed out that surviving five assassination attempts in the last two years reflects the group’s desperation.

Diplomatic Achievements as Proof of Progress

Highlighting recent diplomatic milestones, Mohamud said they demonstrate Somalia’s growing stability and renewed international standing. He noted the lifting of the arms embargo after 32 years, nearly $5 billion in debt relief, and Somalia’s admission into the East African Community. He further underlined Somalia’s election to a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the first time since 1972, describing it as a clear sign of progress.

Managing Regional Tensions and Safeguarding Sovereignty

On sensitive foreign policy issues, President Mohamud criticized the port deal between Ethiopia and Somaliland, calling it a direct violation of Somalia’s unity, which he described as “sacrosanct.” He stressed that dialogue and shared interests are the only path forward.

Addressing speculation about Somalia becoming a proxy in the dispute between Ethiopia and Egypt over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), Mohamud dismissed the idea, affirming that Somalia maintains good relations with both nations and is “tired of war.” He also denounced the previous U.S. travel ban labeling Somalia as a “terrorist safe haven,” insisting that terrorists are being confronted, not sheltered, within the country.