MOGADISHU, Somalia – The Defense Minister of Somalia, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, serving as the current rotating chairman of the Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) Council of Ministers, led the 35th Ordinary Session of the Council today. Organized by the Federal Government of Somalia, this important meeting assembled defense officials from regional nations to discuss joint security approaches.
This concluded six days of thorough discussions held in Mogadishu. The event followed a structured progression, commencing with expert committee meetings, then sessions of defense chiefs of staff. Yesterday’s ministerial level constituted the summit’s highest tier, where defense ministers assessed and approved proposals and resolutions formulated in earlier meetings.
During his opening remarks, Fiqi emphasized the strategic importance of EASF within today’s regional security framework. He outlined the organisation’s critical role in preventing conflicts, implementing peace measures, conducting stabilization operations, and reconstructing post-conflict areas. The minister also underscored the necessity of maintaining strong operational coordination with the African Union, United Nations, and other global partners to ensure unified regional stability efforts.
Fiqi underscored Somalia’s commitment to regional integration by referencing a significant legislative achievement from earlier this month. On December 3, 2025, Somalia’s Parliament formally approved the EASF Establishment Agreement. The minister indicated this legislative step reflects Somalia’s determination to engage actively in East Africa’s security and stability frameworks.
Throughout the week-long meeting, participants engaged in extensive dialogue about the region’s current security situation. The agenda featured a thorough assessment of previous decision implementations, analyses of insights from recent military drills, and presentations of audit findings. Major administrative results encompassed evaluation of the 2025 EASF Action Plan and discussions concerning the 2026 fiscal year Budget and Action Plan.
In his closing statement, the defense minister urged member nations to reinforce their unity, improve collaboration, and maintain accountability standards. He stressed that a unified approach is crucial for developing the EASF into an effective and prepared organization capable of addressing new security threats, safeguarding civilian populations, and ensuring lasting peace throughout the region.
