MOGADISHU – The Minister of Internal Security for the Federal Government of Somalia, Gen. Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail (Fartaag), met today with a delegation from EUCAP Somalia headed by the Head of Mission, Kestutis Lancinskas. The gathering was also joined by the Director General of the Ministry of Internal Security, Mr. Mohamed H. Shire, alongside various departmental directors from the Ministry.
The dialogue centered on enhancing security collaboration, technical assistance, and training support delivered by the Mission to Somalia’s security entities, specifically the Somali Police Force, the Darwish Forces, and the Somali Coast Guard. The meeting also covered the continuous review of EUCAP Somalia’s strategy and methods to synchronize security backing with the Federal Government of Somalia’s priorities.
EUCAP Somalia’s Support for Somali Security Forces
EUCAP Somalia has been instrumental in building the capacity of Somali security institutions. The European Union’s security and defense missions in Somalia, including EUCAP Somalia and EUTM Somalia, have been extended until February 28, 2027, demonstrating the EU’s continued commitment to enhancing security, stability, and governance in the country. EUCAP Somalia focuses on strengthening Somalia’s maritime security, police capabilities, and the rule of law, while EUTM Somalia is dedicated to strengthening the Somali National Armed Forces through specialized military training and capacity-building.
EUCAP Somalia has been instrumental in building the capacity of the Somali Police Force and maritime authorities, including training over 700 federal Darwish officers. The mission’s efforts include enhancing the Somali Police Force’s command and control capabilities and supporting the development of maritime law enforcement through the establishment of facilities like the Maritime Rescue and Coordination Centre.
Government Ownership and Coordination
The Minister of Internal Security and the Director General highlighted the significance of governmental ownership, coordination, and supervision of all initiatives directed toward supporting Somalia’s security institutions. In turn, the Head of EUCAP Somalia confirmed the Mission’s dedication to persisting with its assistance to Somalia.
Both parties consented to organize a technical meeting to progress further with the review of the Mission’s strategy, reinforce security cooperation, and amplify support to Somalia’s security institutions.
The EU’s integrated approach, combining civilian and military expertise, underscores its commitment to Somalia’s long-term stability and the strengthening of its security institutions. The mission’s efforts are part of a broader EU strategy to support Somalia’s transition plan and ensure sustainable security and governance.
Maritime Security and Equipment Support
In addition to training and advisory support, EUCAP Somalia has provided crucial equipment donations to enhance Somalia’s maritime safety capabilities. The European Union Capacity Building Mission in Somalia (EUCAP Somalia) has donated advanced communication equipment to the country’s Maritime Rescue and Coordination Centre in Mogadishu, enhancing Somalia’s ability to respond to maritime emergencies, coordinate rescues, and ensure safer navigation along its vast coastline.
Looking Ahead
The meeting between Minister Fartaag and EUCAP Somalia leadership represents a continued commitment to strengthening Somalia’s internal security architecture. The planned technical meeting will allow both parties to further refine the Mission’s strategy and ensure that EU support remains aligned with Somalia’s national security priorities.
As Somalia continues to rebuild its security institutions following decades of conflict, partnerships with missions like EUCAP Somalia remain essential for developing professional, accountable, and effective police and maritime security forces capable of maintaining stability and protecting Somalia’s sovereignty.
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