AGP Executive Report

Somalia–Security Diplomacy: Somalia’s Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi met Pakistan’s Field Marshal Asim Munir at GHQ in Rawalpindi, with both sides pledging deeper military-to-military cooperation and support for Somalia’s security institutions. Somalia–Regional Defence: Somalia’s army chief Brig. Gen. Ibrahim Mohamed Mohamud received Ethiopia, Kenya and Uganda defence delegations after an AUSSOM commanders’ meeting in Mogadishu, focusing on security coordination and operational collaboration against militant groups. Somalia–Governance & Documents: Somalia’s Cabinet discussed security and economic updates, including progress on a new third-generation polycarbonate e-passport to improve travel procedures and document integrity, alongside e-cabinet planning and a bill on the origin of goods. Red Sea Maritime Security: Saudi Arabia appointed Rear Admiral Abdullah Al-Shehri to lead a multinational maritime defence coalition aimed at protecting navigation through Bab al-Mandeb, with Somalia listed among founding members. Gaza Mission Link: Uganda’s parliament approved a UPDF deployment to Gaza as part of a US-backed International Stabilisation Force, a move that also highlights how Somalia’s region-wide peacekeeping experience is being cited in current security planning.

Somalia-Puntland Security Crackdown: Puntland says it has seized the Puntland Security Force (PSF) headquarters in Bosaso and earlier overran a federal-aligned base in Galkayo, accusing Mogadishu of diverting China-donated police weapons and Defence Ministry arms; the region also says it will prosecute politicians and officers it claims undermine Puntland’s security. Somalia-Pakistan Defence Ties: Somalia’s defence minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi met Pakistan’s Field Marshal Asim Munir at GHQ in Rawalpindi, with both sides stressing deeper military-to-military cooperation and capacity-building. Somalia Diplomacy & Regional Security: Somalia’s delegation also met Pakistan’s naval and air chiefs as talks focused on maritime security and bilateral defence cooperation. Humanitarian & Rights: A report on Somalia-linked journalist detention highlights alleged NISA abuses against Somali media figures, while UN disaster-risk work in Libya included Somalia in regional preparedness efforts. Regional Context: Saudi Arabia named a commander for a Red Sea maritime defence coalition that includes Somalia, as Uganda’s parliament approved a Gaza deployment under a US-backed stabilisation plan.

Somalia–Pakistan Defence Ties: A Somali defence delegation led by Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi met Pakistan’s naval and air chiefs in Islamabad, with both sides pledging deeper maritime security cooperation, training, and capacity building for the Somali Air Force. Puntland–Mogadishu Rift in Galkayo: Puntland forces overran a federal-aligned camp near Galkayo airport, saying the move was a “planned security operation” to send a message over weapons and troop movements, as fighting and blame continue between regional and federal forces. UNHCR Returns Somali Refugees: UNHCR carried out the first voluntary return flight of Somali refugees from Yemen to Mogadishu in 2026, transporting 155 people under its assisted repatriation programme. Food Security Warning: The World Food Programme warned that a strong El Niño could push nearly 49 million more people into acute hunger, raising risks for vulnerable regions where Somalia’s humanitarian needs are already high. Regional Diplomacy on Jerusalem: Somalia joined Arab and Muslim foreign ministers in Amman to condemn Israeli actions at Al-Aqsa and call for coordinated international action, including reaffirming no Israeli sovereignty over East Jerusalem.

Jerusalem Diplomacy: Arab and Muslim foreign ministers met in Amman and condemned Israel’s “escalation” at Al Aqsa, calling for protection of the site’s historic status and rejecting moves they say target Jerusalem’s identity. Somalia Stabilization: Mogadishu has launched a national consultation to review and update its National Stabilization Strategy (2027–2030), aiming for a government-led, community-owned peacebuilding and governance plan. Puntland–Mogadishu Tensions: Puntland says its Galkayo operation “sent a clear message” after forces seized the PSF headquarters, while Deni accuses the federal government of backing rival forces. AUSSOM Security Talks: Somalia’s president met Djibouti’s armed forces chief in Mogadishu ahead of AUSSOM commanders’ discussions, focusing on defense and counterterror cooperation. Humanitarian Returns: UNHCR carried out the first voluntary airlift of Somali refugees from Yemen to Mogadishu this year, moving 155 people back home. Food Security Warning: WFP warns a strong El Niño could push nearly 49 million more people into acute hunger, raising pressure on vulnerable regions including parts of Africa.

Blue Economy Push: President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud opened Somalia’s inaugural maritime conference in Mogadishu, urging global investors to back fisheries, ports, shipping and coastal protection as the country shifts focus from piracy to growth. Water Security: Qatar Charity launched 24 water projects across Hirshabelle, Galmudug, Southwest State and Northeastern Somalia, including 19 shallow wells and deep-well drilling to ease drought-driven shortages. Hirshabelle Deal-Making: Mohamud met Hawadle leaders over the next Hirshabelle leadership, with talks reportedly moving from a single agreed candidate to allowing the president to choose the community’s candidate. Defence Cooperation: Somalia and Pakistan signed a defence cooperation pact in Islamabad covering counterterrorism, military training and capacity building. Electoral Deadlock Diplomacy: Mohamud held fresh talks with international partners to break the electoral standoff, with the government pushing nationwide direct elections. Security Tensions: A Galkayo weapons shipment was seized by clan militiamen in the Galmudug-controlled area, sparking firefights and raising questions about Mogadishu’s role in Puntland-bound arms. Humanitarian Warning: UN agencies warned El Niño could worsen hunger across Africa, while UNICEF said Ethiopia faces a major funding shortfall for child-focused aid.

Somalia Politics & Elections: Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met international partners to discuss the widening election dispute, focusing on a roadmap toward nationwide direct elections under one-person, one-vote. Galmudug Local Polls: Somalia’s electoral commission published Galmudug local council results showing the ruling JSP winning a large share of votes and seats; Towfiiq rejected the outcome, alleging manipulation and calling for an independent audit. Security Update: Al-Shabaab claimed it seized the strategic town of Teedaan in central Somalia after nearly a day of heavy fighting, with residents saying government forces withdrew and the group began fortifying positions. Regional Peace Efforts: Puntland religious leaders launched a mediation push to secure peace between Somaliland and Northeastern State, proposing prisoner exchanges, troop withdrawals and reopening trade and civilian movement. Governance & Services: Somalia’s Prime Minister marked the first anniversary of Northeastern State in Las Anod, praising progress and reiterating plans to expand the one-person, one-vote model. Diplomacy & Aid: AFRICOM Commander Gen. Dagvin Anderson visited Mogadishu to discuss U.S. support for Somalia’s security forces and the fight against terror groups. Immigration Documents: Somalia’s second deputy PM Jibril Abdirashid Haji surrendered his Kenyan passport and ID after a presidential directive requiring officials to hand over Kenyan documents. Maritime Economy: President Mohamud urged a national shift toward developing Somalia’s maritime resources, saying the coastline and EEZ are key to long-term growth and security. Hajj 2027: Somalia’s Endowments ministry set Hajj registration rules for 2027, requiring early registration through licensed providers and warning against unlicensed operators.

Somalia Politics: Somalia’s ruling Justice and Solidarity Party (JSP) won a decisive majority in Galmudug’s first one-person, one-vote local council elections, taking 63 of 189 seats and positioning the party strongly ahead of the region’s presidential race. Security & Al-Shabaab: In central Hiran, Al-Shabaab claimed it has retaken Teedaan, a key transport hub near Beledweyne, after clashes that forced allied forces to withdraw; the Somali government has not confirmed the details. Regional Diplomacy: Somalia’s Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi met China’s ambassador in Mogadishu to discuss defence cooperation, the fight against Al-Shabaab, and the future of AUSSOM as troop contributors push for an extension. Humanitarian & Climate: FAO says Somalia is preparing anticipatory actions for expected El Niño-linked heavy rains and flooding, including debris clearance and forecast-based cash support for flood-prone communities along the Shabelle and Juba river basins. Kenya-Somalia Tensions: Somalia’s Second Deputy PM Jibril Abdirashid Haji says he has surrendered his Kenyan passport in Mogadishu, calling it a voluntary administrative step to ensure transparency. US Immigration: In the US, federal courts again blocked efforts to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somalis, while US lawmakers escalated impeachment threats against the judge involved.

Al-Shabaab Insurgency: Al-Shabaab claims it has taken control of Teedaan in Somalia’s Hiran region after clashes with Somali forces and allied clan militias, with the group alleging dozens of soldiers killed; officials have not confirmed details, but the town is described as a key transport and logistics hub about 60km from Beledweyne. Diplomatic Tensions: Somalia’s Deputy Prime Minister Jibril Abdirashid Haji says he has voluntarily surrendered his Kenyan passport and related documents to Mogadishu’s Kenyan embassy, calling it an administrative step to boost transparency after his earlier deportation from Nairobi. Security Cooperation: Puntland and the U.S. signed an agreement to expand the American base in Bosaso, focusing on counterterrorism and maritime security in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Regional Politics: Somalia’s House of the People is moving toward electing a new speaker after the acting speaker named a committee to run the process. Climate Risk: FAO says Somalia is preparing for likely heavy Deyr rains as El Niño conditions build, with flood mitigation and early support planned for river floodplains.

AUSSOM Funding Pressure: African leaders meeting in Kampala urged more reliable financing to keep the AU mission in Somalia running as the U.S. hesitates and Europe faces strain, with Uganda’s Museveni insisting Somalia won’t be abandoned. U.S. Conditional Support: AFRICOM chief Gen. Dagvin Anderson warned Washington’s backing for Somalia’s fight against Al-Shabaab depends on Mogadishu ending political infighting, saying the Danab force is ready but sustaining it is now Somalia’s job. Red Sea Security Push: Saudi Arabia announced a new maritime defense alliance with Egypt, Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea and Somalia to protect Red Sea and Gulf of Aden shipping amid Houthi threats. Mogadishu Politics: Somalia’s president warned against exporting Middle East conflicts to the Horn, while the opposition rejected claims it sought a return to transitional rule and a minister resigned to run for Speaker. Regional Engagement: Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre visited Las Anod for Northeastern State’s anniversary, and Somalia received credentials of Algeria’s new ambassador. Trade Reform: Somalia urged faster customs and border reforms to make EAC and AfCFTA membership pay off.

Somalia–Israel Tensions: President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud told Parliament Mogadishu will not let Middle East conflicts spill into the Horn, accusing Israel of interfering in Somalia’s internal affairs and fueling instability around the Red Sea. AUSSOM Politics: At an AU troop-contributing summit in Uganda, Mohamud pushed back on communique wording calling for dialogue with the opposition; the final text softened the language. US Security Pressure: AFRICOM chief Gen. Dagvin Anderson said continued US engagement depends on Somalia ending political infighting, while also denying any US plan to build a military base in Somaliland. Somalia–Puntland US Deal: In Bosaso, President Deni met US special operations leadership and signed an agreement to expand counterterrorism and maritime security cooperation, including intelligence sharing. Elections & Women’s Quota: Somalia’s Ministry of Family urged full implementation of the 30% women’s quota in Galmudug elections. Health & Aid Strain: UNHCR-linked reporting says newborn deaths across vulnerable communities in sub-Saharan Africa have surged as aid cuts bite, raising alarm for Somalia’s most at-risk families. Breastfeeding Policy: Somalia, with UNICEF and WHO, launched national regulations to control formula marketing and protect breastfeeding.

Parliament & Elections: Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud opened the eighth session of the Federal Parliament, urging lawmakers to push security gains against al-Shabaab and renew the push for direct elections. Trade & Integration: Mohamud signed legislation to join the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), clearing the way for Somalia to deposit its ratification with the AU. Red Sea Security: Saudi Arabia unveiled a 14-nation maritime defence coalition to protect Red Sea shipping through Bab el-Mandeb and the Gulf of Aden, with Somalia among the members. Health Policy: Somalia, with UNICEF and WHO, launched national Breast-milk Substitutes regulations to curb risky formula marketing during World Breastfeeding Week. Diplomatic Tensions: Mohamud ordered ministers and senior officials holding Kenyan passports or IDs to surrender them after entry denials in Nairobi. US Immigration Court Fight: A US federal judge again blocked the Trump administration from ending Temporary Protected Status for Somalis, extending protections while legal challenges proceed. Security Pressure: AFRICOM’s chief told Mogadishu US support is conditional on Somalia taking more responsibility and reducing political infighting.

Parliament & Reform: President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud opened Somalia’s 8th Federal Parliament session, urging lawmakers to push security gains against al-Shabaab and advance democratic reforms and key legislation. Regional Security Pressure: U.S. AFRICOM chief Gen. Dagvin Anderson told Mogadishu Washington’s support is conditional on political unity and Somali-led security, warning internal infighting could end engagement. AUSSOM Funding Fight: Troop-contributing countries meeting in Kampala urged the UN Security Council to extend AUSSOM backing for 18–24 months to avoid a security vacuum and protect Somalia’s stabilization path. Red Sea Maritime Shift: Somalia signed onto a Saudi-led maritime defense alliance meant to secure the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandeb and Gulf of Aden amid Houthi threats, with Somalia named among the 14 founding states. Drone Attack Condemnation: Somalia condemned a drone strike targeting Egypt’s Damietta Port, warning it threatens critical infrastructure and freedom of navigation. Puntland Anniversary: Puntland marked 28 years in Garowe with a major parade and public celebrations, spotlighting its security and governance priorities. Piracy Link to Wider War: A commentary piece argues Iran-linked threat networks have helped keep Somali piracy active, tying Gulf of Aden attacks to broader regional militant logistics. Humanitarian Weather Watch: UN warnings of strong El Niño raise fears of heavier rains and flooding across the Horn, including Somalia’s region.

Maritime Security: Saudi Arabia has launched a 14-nation maritime defense coalition to protect Red Sea, Bab al-Mandeb and Gulf of Aden shipping, with Somalia named among the founding signatories; the alliance is framed as defensive and includes plans for joint operations and intelligence-sharing as Houthis threaten navigation. Piracy Crisis: Somali pirates are still holding four vessels and 67 crewmembers after months of captivity, while DGMA confirms at least 16 Indian seafarers remain hostage following hijackings around the Gulf of Aden and Horn of Africa. Somalia Peace Mission: AU leaders meeting in Kampala are pushing to extend AUSSOM despite looming funding and logistics gaps as the UN’s support framework nears expiry, stressing that security gains must be matched by political unity. Politics & Accountability: At the AUSSOM summit, officials warned Somalia’s security transition hinges on a political agreement, while in the U.S. a federal judge again blocked Trump’s move to end Temporary Protected Status for Somalis. Human Stories: Renowned Somali singer and composer Ahmed Ali Igaal has died in the United States.

Trade & Integration: Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has signed the AfCFTA law, clearing the final domestic step so Mogadishu can deposit its ratification with the AU and join Africa’s single market. Security & Politics: AU troop-contributing defence ministers meeting in Kampala warned Somalia’s unresolved political disputes are the biggest barrier to lasting peace, saying funding and military action alone won’t fix the crisis. Regional Diplomacy: Kenya’s DP Kithure Kindiki arrived in Entebbe to represent President William Ruto at the AUSSOM summit, as leaders push for a sustainable plan to avoid a security vacuum. Red Sea Stakes: Saudi Arabia announced a 14-nation maritime defence alliance to protect Bab al-Mandeb, the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, with Somalia listed among founding supporters. Somalia-U.S. Focus: AFRICOM’s commander met President Mohamud, with sources saying Washington wants a political deal first and will tie future support to results. Local Governance: Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni warned against clan militias forming inside the state, calling them linked to political actors. Culture: Somali music legend Ahmed Ali Cigaal died in the United States, remembered for decades shaping theatre-linked Somali music.

Maritime Security: Saudi Arabia has launched a Saudi-led multinational maritime defense coalition, with 14 founding backers including Somalia, to protect shipping lanes through the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden as Houthi attacks and wider US-Iran tensions threaten trade. Regional Diplomacy: The alliance was agreed after a Riyadh meeting of chiefs of staff from 43 countries plus the EU, with Saudi Arabia set as founding leader and permanent headquarters while members say participation remains sovereign and defensive. Humanitarian Crisis: In Somalia, Save the Children reports severe hunger is worsening in Baidoa, where admissions for the deadliest malnutrition nearly tripled in six months, driven by poor rainfall, high food prices, aid cuts and conflict. Somalia Peace Mission: The AU is being pushed to rethink AUSSOM after US funding cuts, raising questions about how Somalia’s security transition will be sustained. Climate Risk: Somalia urged African partners to prepare for the 2026 Super El Niño, calling for better early warnings, anticipatory action funding and climate-resilient infrastructure.

AUSSOM Funding Crunch: Somalia’s security transition is under strain as donor fatigue grows and UN logistical support is set to end by December 2026, with leaders meeting in Kampala to plan what comes next for the AU mission. U.S.-Somalia Security Talks: In Mogadishu, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met AFRICOM chief Gen. Dagvin R.M. Anderson to deepen counterterrorism cooperation and defense coordination as partners review future support. AU Coordination in Addis Ababa: Somalia’s foreign minister held talks with the AU Commission chair on peace and security priorities and AUSSOM/UN support developments. Somalia’s Security Transition Faces Challenges as Donor Fatigue Grows: The Kampala summit is framed as a make-or-break moment, with commanders already reporting reduced effectiveness from UN support cuts. Red Sea Coalition Push: Saudi Arabia is seeking a 50-nation coalition to protect Red Sea shipping from Houthi threats, with Somalia reported among those invited. Regional Flashpoint in Galkayo: Puntland troops surrounded a camp in Galkayo tied to forces aligned with Mogadishu, raising fears of renewed clashes in the border-split town. Somaliland Travel Advisory Fight: U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz urged a Somaliland-specific travel advisory, arguing the current Somalia warning doesn’t match conditions on the ground.