President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud Chairs Cabinet Meeting

The Council of Ministers of the Federal Government of Somalia held an extraordinary meeting today, during which discussions focused on the overall security situation in the country and the latest operations carried out by the Somali National Army, which have achieved significant successes in the fight against the Khawarij groups. The meeting also reviewed the recently concluded local council elections in the Banadir Region, which were successfully held in the capital.

The meeting was chaired by the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, and attended by the Prime Minister of the Federal Government, H.E. Hamza Abdi Barre. During the session, the President delivered a comprehensive briefing on the general situation of the country and highly commended the Council of Ministers for the important role they played in ensuring the successful conduct of the one-person, one-vote local elections held in the capital on December 25, 2025—an event the President described as historic and one that many had previously doubted would be possible.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud also addressed the blatant attack launched against Somalia’s sovereignty, stating that the government had achieved tangible successes through diplomatic efforts in responding to the aggression. He urged the Council to confront the defense of the nation collectively and in unity. The President further encouraged the Cabinet to approach the country’s challenges with solidarity, cooperation, consultation, and a strong commitment to serving the Somali people.

The Council of Ministers approved two important Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) that are vital to national interests and cooperation with friendly countries:

1. A security cooperation MoU between the Governments of Somalia and Uganda.
2. A maritime transport cooperation MoU between the Government of Somalia and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

In addition, the Council endorsed the following bills and policies:

1. The Evidence Bill.
2. The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (1978).
3. The Law establishing the Somali Maritime Institute.
4. The Regulation on Public Data Protection Law.
5. The National Policy on Persons with Disabilities.

Finally, the Council received a briefing from the Minister of Petroleum and Minerals, H.E. Dahir Shire Mohamed, regarding upcoming oil production activities set to commence in the country, as well as a report on the ongoing drought situation presented by the National Disaster Management Agency (SODMA).

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