The Federal Government of Somalia has launched a two-day national conference in Mogadishu aimed at strengthening controls over illicit arms, unregulated ammunition, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), as part of efforts to bolster national security and counter insurgent threats.

The high-level forum, which began on Monday, is led by Defence Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi and organized by the Office of the National Security Advisor. It brings together senior officials from both federal and regional governments, as well as international partners supporting Somalia’s security sector reforms.

Central to the discussions is the advancement of the National Weapons and Ammunition Management (WAM) Strategy 2025–2030. The strategy outlines a comprehensive framework for standardized arms control, digital firearm registration, ammunition marking, and measures to limit materials used in roadside bombs and targeted attacks.

“This strategy is not optional—it’s a national obligation critical to Somalia’s peace and stability,” said Minister Fiqi during his opening remarks. “We’re seeing measurable progress, particularly in the digital tracking of weapons, thanks to our partners’ support.”

Other key speakers included Deputy Minister of Internal Security, General Sulub Ahmed Firin, and National Security Advisor Hussein Sheikh-Ali, both of whom stressed the importance of coordinated implementation of the WAM strategy across all levels of government.

The conference comes amid continued operations to dismantle Al-Shabaab’s operational capabilities, with the militant group still relying heavily on IEDs in urban centers and along military supply routes. Federal and state officials underscored the need for enhanced collaboration with the Arms and Ammunition Management Division (CMD) under the National Security Office, and called for increased technical assistance from international donors.

In a closing statement, the Defence Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to the structural and operational reforms necessary to implement the WAM strategy effectively. Officials noted that the outcomes of the conference would shape Somalia’s security priorities for the next five years.

Attendees at the Annual National Coordination Meeting on Weapons, Ammunition Management, and Counter-IED included senior Somali officials, representatives from the United Nations, HALO Trust, AMISOM, and various international partners.