Somali PM Hosts OIC Delegation in Mogadishu to Discuss State-building and Elections

MOGADISHU — Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre has received a high-level delegation from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Mogadishu, with discussions focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing the organization’s support for Somalia’s state-building efforts.

The delegation was led by the Director General of the OIC Office in Somalia, Ambassador Mohamed Bamba M. Boba. Ambassador Bamba previously announced the OIC’s plans to provide Somalia with humanitarian and development support during a 2023 courtesy call with the then-Foreign Minister.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Barre briefed the delegation on the general situation in the country and the practical steps being taken in the areas of security, governance, political stability, and economic development. The Prime Minister also highlighted the government’s commitment to accelerating the implementation of the one-person-one-vote electoral system, which has already begun in some parts of the country.

OIC’s Role in Somalia

Prime Minister Barre expressed gratitude to the OIC for its continued support and fraternal solidarity with the Somali people. The OIC has been a key defender of Somalia’s territorial integrity, convening an extraordinary session in January 2026 to address Israeli recognition of Somaliland and adopting a resolution to protect the sovereignty of the Federal Republic of Somalia against external interference and unilateral recognition of its regions.

The organization has also rejected previous agreements between Ethiopia and Somaliland, urging Ethiopia to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia.

The Prime Minister particularly praised the organization’s efforts in supporting peace initiatives, building state institutions, and promoting development programs in the country.

Somalia has also engaged with the OIC on anti-corruption efforts, with the Minister of Justice signing the Makkah Al Mukarramah Convention, which focuses on enhancing collaboration among OIC member states in combating corruption.

The OIC delegation, for its part, affirmed its commitment to maintaining close cooperation with the Federal Government of Somalia. They underscored the importance of strengthening programs designed to address basic needs and support efforts to achieve lasting stability across the region.

Critical Note

The meeting between Prime Minister Barre and the OIC delegation reflects the government’s ongoing engagement with international partners to secure support for its state-building and electoral agenda. The OIC’s continued engagement provides a platform for Somalia to maintain its international profile and mobilize resources for development priorities.

Yet, the effectiveness of this partnership depends on the government’s ability to deliver on its commitments, particularly in the areas of security and electoral reform. The OIC’s support has been consistent, but tangible progress on the ground will ultimately determine the credibility of Somalia’s state-building efforts.

The Prime Minister’s emphasis on the one-person-one-vote electoral system signals the government’s determination to move beyond the clan-based selection model, but the challenges of implementing such a system in a context of ongoing insecurity and political fragmentation remain significant. Without sustained progress on security and political reconciliation, the electoral agenda risks being undermined.