Mogadishu, Somalia – The Minister of Defence, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, held a high-level meeting on Sunday with Francis O’Grady, Director of the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) in Somalia, to enhance joint efforts in clearing landmines from liberated areas.
The meeting focused on strengthening coordination between the Federal Government and UNMAS to support the Somali National Army (SNA), improve security, and ensure the safe return of displaced civilians.
Both parties underscored their shared commitment to building sustainable national capacity in mine action through effective knowledge transfer and training.
“This partnership is crucial for restoring stability in regions freed from terrorist control,” Fiqi said, highlighting the importance of mine clearance in enabling development and humanitarian access.
UNMAS Director O’Grady reaffirmed the agency’s support, noting that bolstering Somalia’s local capacity remains a top priority in the fight against explosive threats.
The meeting comes amid ongoing operations by the SNA to liberate more territory from Al-Shabaab insurgents.