Historical archive

Political stability and reforms bring progress in Somalia

Historical archive

Published under: Solberg's Government

Publisher: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Minister of Foreign Affairs Ine Eriksen Søreide visited Mogadishu on 10 June for talks with Somalia’s President and Prime Minister. She also met key humanitarian and diplomatic actors.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Ine Eriksen Søreide with Somalia's Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire in Mogadishu. Credit: Svein Michelsen, MFA
Minister of Foreign Affairs Ine Eriksen Søreide visited Mogadishu 10 June 2019. Here with Somalia's Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire. Credit: Svein Michelsen, MFA

‘The Somali Government is more politically stable than it has been for many decades, and it is now in the process of implementing vital reforms. Norway is an important partner for Somalia in this work,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Ine Eriksen Søreide.

Key reforms include the introduction of biometric registration of the Somali armed forces and digital payment of their salaries. This promotes predictability, prevents corruption and boosts loyalty. 

In cooperation with the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), a regional peacekeeping mission, and other allies, the Government has expanded its territorial control while also providing better protection for the local population.   

‘The progress is fragile and many challenges remain. In 2019 and 2020, it will be crucial to continue to implement the reforms to the security sector, the economy and the political system. But Somalia is already receiving broad international recognition for its reform efforts. To achieve lasting progress, it is important that regional actors and the international community support this work,’ Ms Eriksen Søreide said. 

One of the factors threatening progress is climate change, which is causing more frequent droughts. Droughts are a significant problem. They are affecting local food production, exacerbating existing conflicts and forcing even more people to flee their homes. Norway is now increasing its humanitarian efforts in Somalia in order to prevent a famine. 

Some 70 % of Somalia’s population is under the age of 30. 

‘Despite the major challenges, I am cautiously optimistic. A new generation of Somalis is creating a new story for their country. They are showing a willingness to pursue reconciliation and an ability and determination to build a new Somalia,’ Ms Eriksen Søreide said.