Djibouti – Somalia’s Minister of Endowments and Religious Affairs, Sheikh Mukhtar Robow Ali, arrived in Djibouti on Tuesday for an official visit aimed at reinforcing the long-standing religious and cultural ties between the two Horn of Africa nations.
Invited by Djibouti’s Minister of Religion, Culture, and Endowments, Moumin Hassan Barre, Sheikh Robow was warmly received by senior Djiboutian officials and members of the Somali embassy upon arrival. The visit, officials say, reflects a growing commitment by both governments to strengthen cooperation on religious education, endowment management, and cultural exchange.
According to the Somali Ministry of Endowments, discussions will center on building institutional partnerships between Somalia’s religious councils and Djibouti’s Ministry of Religion. The two sides are expected to share experiences on promoting moderate Islamic teachings, countering extremist ideologies, and managing public endowments to support community development.
Speaking before his departure from Mogadishu, Sheikh Robow said the visit was part of a broader effort by the Federal Government to promote peace and unity through faith and cultural understanding.
“Religion remains a cornerstone of our societies. Our collaboration with Djibouti will help strengthen moral values and deepen the brotherly bond that has always existed between our peoples,” he said.
Analysts view the trip as a continuation of Somalia’s recent diplomatic outreach to its regional neighbors, with a focus not only on political and security cooperation but also on social and spiritual engagement. Djibouti, which hosts a vibrant Somali community, has long been an advocate for regional dialogue and interfaith harmony.
During the visit, Sheikh Robow is expected to tour key religious institutions, including Djibouti’s Islamic Affairs Directorate and several historic mosques, and hold talks with scholars and clerics on future joint programs.
Both governments are expected to issue a joint statement outlining new areas of collaboration at the end of the visit, underscoring the shared goal of fostering unity, tolerance, and cultural preservation across the Horn of Africa.