Mogadishu, Somalia — Defence Minister Ahmed Moallin Fiqi has reaffirmed Somalia’s commitment to strengthening the role of the Arabic language in public institutions, calling it a vital pillar of the country’s cultural identity and religious heritage.
Speaking on Tuesday at the closing ceremony of a workshop on the future of the Arabic language, held in Mogadishu, the minister highlighted Somalia’s deep historic and diplomatic ties with the Arab world. He stressed that promoting Arabic is not only a linguistic priority but a strategic step toward national cohesion and international cooperation.
Fiqi announced that Arabic will be formally incorporated into military education and training frameworks, marking a significant shift in the language policy of the Somali National Armed Forces. He argued that enhancing Arabic proficiency among service members would improve regional coordination, particularly with partner nations in the Arab League.
The minister extended his gratitude to the Arab League for its continued support in education and capacity-building initiatives. He also pledged to fully implement the recommendations drafted during the workshop, noting that linguistic empowerment is crucial to Somalia’s broader goals of development, unity, and global engagement.
Organisers of the workshop described it as a milestone in ongoing efforts to restore the prominence of Arabic in government institutions, schools, and civic life. Stakeholders from academic, religious, and cultural sectors participated, producing a roadmap aimed at revitalising Arabic as a national language alongside Somali.
With the defence portfolio now backing the initiative, expectations are rising that other ministries may follow suit — signalling a new chapter in Somalia’s linguistic and diplomatic strategy.