Somalia Advances Counter-Terrorism and AI Governance at Madrid Dialogue

MADRID, Spain: The Federal Republic of Somalia has consolidated its position within international security architectures during the global summit on “Counter-Terrorism Cooperation in Africa,” part of the prestigious Madrid Dialogue series. Representing the administration, the Presidential Special Envoy for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism, Honorable MP Aweys Mohamed Omar, joined senior global diplomats and intelligence architects to negotiate multilateral frameworks designed to dismantle extremist networks across the African continent.

High-level conversations centered on the geopolitical impact of emerging technologies, particularly examining how modern digital platforms and Artificial Intelligence (AI) influence contemporary asymmetric warfare. In his address to the plenary assembly, Special Envoy Aweys Mohamed Omar stated that for Somalia, addressing these digital threats is not merely a theoretical concept but an urgent national security priority. He detailed how insurgent groups have utilized advanced digital technologies and social media platforms to implement sophisticated propaganda campaigns and target vulnerable youth across the region.

Somalia Engages in Bilateral Counter-Terrorism Consultations

The Special Envoy engaged in high-level consultations with representatives from participating countries including Portugal, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Togo, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Through these bilateral exchanges, the Somali delegation highlighted that combating localized violent extremism requires strong international intelligence collaboration and coordinated state-level oversight of digital networks.

The Federal Government’s active participation in Madrid ensures Somalia’s domestic counter-terrorism achievements and strategic viewpoint are incorporated into future global governance frameworks for artificial intelligence and digital security in Africa. This engagement builds on Somalia’s recent diplomatic push to deepen security ties with international partners. Somalia and INTERPOL have deepened cooperation to combat transnational organized crime, terrorism, and illicit trafficking, reflecting Mogadishu’s growing role in global security frameworks.

Special Envoy Brings Extensive Counter-Extremism Experience

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud appointed MP Aweys Mohamed Omar as the Presidential Special Envoy for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (P/CVE) in November 2025. The President urged the new envoy to serve the nation with integrity, competence, and national responsibility.

In his role, Envoy Aweys Mohamed Omar focuses on strengthening security and reinforcing state institutions, preventing extremism and combating violent extremist ideologies, enhancing cooperation between communities and security institutions, and developing national P/CVE policies. He brings extensive experience from his work across security institutions, public policy, and counter-extremism initiatives, equipping him to effectively carry out these responsibilities.

The Special Envoy has previously spoken out against disinformation campaigns aimed at undermining counter-terrorism operations. Aweys Mohamed Omar categorically dismissed reports of secret negotiations with Al-Shabaab, calling the allegations false and designed to mislead the public. He emphasized that the government remains focused on militarily defeating the militant group and eliminating its ideological underpinnings.

Expanding Strategic Counter-Terrorism Partnerships

Somalia’s counter-terrorism architecture continues to expand through strategic international partnerships. The Ministry of Internal Security and the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) have vowed complete dedication to freeing the nation from the Al-Shabaab insurgency, following a series of high-level diplomatic meetings and successful frontline offensives.

The Madrid Dialogue engagement also aligns with Somalia’s growing presence in global security governance. Somalia and Spain signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Political Consultations, establishing a framework for regular dialogue between the two nations. The agreement marks a key step in deepening bilateral ties and reflects Somalia’s growing diplomatic engagement, including its role on the UN Security Council.

Digital Threats and AI Governance Take Center Stage

The Madrid Dialogue’s focus on AI and digital security comes as terrorist groups across Africa increasingly exploit modern technologies. A recent UN Security Council warning highlighted that extremist organizations are using AI and digital platforms for recruitment, fundraising, and radicalization. Somalia’s proactive stance in shaping governance frameworks for these technologies positions the country as a key voice in the international debate on countering digital extremism.

Qatar’s Special Envoy for Counterterrorism and Mediation of Conflict Resolution recently met with Somali regional leaders as part of broader international efforts to support Somalia’s stabilization. The growing network of counter-terrorism partnerships underscores the international community’s recognition of Somalia’s frontline role in combating extremism in the Horn of Africa.