National Forum in Somalia to counter IEDs and illegal arms

The Federal Government of Somalia held a two-day national conference in the capital, Mogadishu, to address the growing threat posed by illicit arms, unregulated ammunition, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) used by insurgent groups. Led by Defence Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, the conference brought together officials from federal and regional governments, as well as international partners collaborating with Somalia’s security sector. One of the key topics discussed was the gradual implementation of the National Weapons and Ammunition Management (WAM) Strategy 2025–2030. This strategy is designed to standardise arms control, digitise firearms registration, monitor ammunition, and reduce the availability of materials commonly used in the manufacture of IEDs. In his opening remarks, Minister Fiqi stated that the country is making measurable progress in these areas and praised the support of its foreign partners.