Somalia Roundup: Military operations, budget approval, flood mitigation
President's son
The son of Somalia's current President, Mohamed Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, was reportedly involved in a tragic road accident in Istanbul on November 30, resulting in the death of Turkish motorcyclist Yunus Emre. Mohamed was driving a car registered to the Somali Consulate near the Eurasia Tunnel's exit, Somali Guardian reports. Despite concerns raised by the victim's family about conflicting police reports and Mohamed's release on bail possibly influenced by diplomatic immunity, former Turkish ambassador to Somalia Cemalettin Kani Torun urged President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to ensure legal proceedings and compensation for the victim's family. “This is not right for you as a devout Muslim and for Somalia as a bad publicity. Please send your son to go to court for legal proceedings and compensate victim’s family,” Torun tweeted.
Parliamentary approval
Somalia's parliament has endorsed a budget exceeding one billion dollars for the fiscal year 2024. The approval aligns with the country's efforts to secure complete debt relief from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and other lenders later this month, Hiiran reports. The unanimous approval by parliamentarians, led by Speaker Abdi Hashi Abdullahi, sets the stage for diligent implementation by the government. While the approved budget details are yet to be published, the Minister of Finance, MP Bihi Iman Cige, welcomed the decision, emphasising its importance in national fiscal planning.
Somali army takes action
The Somali National Army, specifically the 9th Brigade and the 60th Division, executed a planned operation against Al-Shabaab in areas under Hudur District, the capital of Bakool Region. Targeting locations like Farag, Huyaley, Abagbeeday, Dudumaale, Kojoor, and Eelgaras, the operation inflicted heavy losses on Al-Shabaab, Radio Dalson reports. Deputy Commander G/le Yonis Adan Hassan confirmed the destruction of enemy positions, emphasizing ongoing national efforts to combat Al-Shabaab's activities across the country.
Turkish military Delegation visit
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of the Federal Government of Somalia held a meeting with a delegation of Turkish military experts and officers at Villa Somalia, the presidential palace in Mogadishu. The meeting, attended by Turkish Ambassador Ibrahim M. Yagli, highlighted bilateral relations and Turkey's commitment to supporting Somalia's security and stability, Somali National News Agency reports. Discussions focused on strengthening cooperation, particularly in supporting anti-Al-Shabaab operations and the training of Somali soldiers. President Mohamud expressed gratitude for Turkey's ongoing support, acknowledging its significant role in enhancing the nation's security.
$43.8 million flood mitigation deal
The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has signed a $43.8 million deal to implement the Restorinthe Riverine Eco-Systems for Climate Adaptations (RESTORE) project in Somalia. Aimed at reducing flood risk and mitigating drought, the project will rehabilitate a large irrigation scheme in Hirshabelle State, benefiting 1.5 million people, Garowe Online has reported. FAO Representative Etienne Peterschmitt said, “This will substantially reduce flood risk, mitigate drought, support local production, and boost food security for millions of populations vulnerable to recurring shocks and crises.” “JOSP and TESTORE represent the first such initiatives in Somalia, seeking to sustainably address the underlying drivers of vulnerability promoting a shift towards sustainable production and self-sufficiency while supporting peace, stability, and social cohesion in areas impacted by conflict,” the FAO added.
