President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud departed Somalia to embark on an unexpected trip to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Saturday afternoon.
His unexpected trip to the UAE has sparked curiosity and concern, especially as it comes amid reports that the UAE has suspended salary payments to 15,000 Somali National Army (SNA) soldiers.
This financial support had been a cornerstone of Somalia’s efforts to stabilize and strengthen its armed forces.
The diplomatic engagement follows a period of strained ties between Mogadishu and Abu Dhabi, though details about the agenda remain under wraps.
This move by the UAE raises critical questions about future support for Somalia’s security sector, and some analysts believe that President Mohamud’s visit could aim to negotiate a continuation of this aid or explore alternative support avenues for the SNA.
If unresolved, the funding gap could challenge the government’s ongoing security operations and capacity-building efforts.
Funding is critical as Somalia transitions from reliance on international forces like the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) toward a more self-sustaining national defense structure.