Source: Freelancer, Hafid Nor
Former Somali National Security Adviser Hussein Sheikh Ali has warned that Somalia’s national security forces currently do not have the manpower and operational capacity to immediately fill the security vacuum that could be created as African Union peacekeepers continue withdrawing from parts of the country.
Speaking in an interview, Hussein Sheikh Ali said the Somali National Army (SNA) is not yet sufficiently prepared to take over every area being vacated by the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). He argued that the country must adopt a realistic security strategy to avoid creating opportunities for extremist groups to regain territory.
“Our forces do not yet have the strength and capability to fully replace AUSSOM in all the areas it is leaving,” he said. “Therefore, Somalia should seek new international donors and partners to support the security sector. Another possible option is to temporarily withdraw from some less strategic areas and concentrate available forces on defending Mogadishu and the Shabelle regions.”
According to Hussein Sheikh Ali, the current security situation requires difficult but practical decisions. He emphasized that maintaining strong defensive positions around the capital, Mogadishu, and the strategically important Middle and Lower Shabelle regions could help protect key government institutions, major population centers, and supply routes while the Somali security forces continue building their capacity.
He also stressed the importance of securing additional financial and military assistance from international partners to strengthen Somalia’s armed forces through improved training, equipment, logistics, intelligence, and sustainable funding. Without continued international support, he warned, the country’s security gains could face significant challenges as AUSSOM gradually reduces its presence.
The remarks come at a time when Somalia continues to confront security threats from al-Shabaab, while the future financing and transition of AUSSOM remain key issues in discussions between Somalia, the African Union, and international partners. (instagram.com)
Watch the full interview with former National Security Adviser Hussein Sheikh Ali here:
