Somalia Establishes High-Level Committee to Combat Al-Shabaab and ISIS

Somalia Establishes High-Level Committee to Combat Al-Shabaab and ISIS

In a decisive move to strengthen Somalia’s counterterrorism efforts, Prime Minister Hamsa Abdi Barre has announced the formation of a high-level National Committee. This body will oversee and coordinate the fight against Al-Shabaab and ISIS-Somalia, marking a significant step in the government’s strategy to eliminate extremist threats.

Leadership and Composition

The committee is chaired by Second Deputy Prime Minister Abdisalan Abdi Ali and includes top government officials and security experts:

• Ali Yusuf Hosh – Minister of Interior

• Gen. Bashir Mohamed Jama – Minister of Environment

• Dr. Ali Hajji Adan – Minister of Health

• Mohamed Ali Hagaa – State Minister for Internal Security

• Mohamed Ahmed Amir – Mayor of Mogadishu

• Mohamud Moalim Hassan – Commissioner of the Disaster Management Agency

Multi-Sectoral Approach to Counterterrorism

Rather than solely focusing on military action, the committee is adopting a broad, multi-pronged strategy. Its responsibilities include:

• Military Coordination: Enhancing offensive operations alongside the Somali National Army (SNA) and regional forces.

• Financial Disruption: Targeting funding sources that sustain terrorist activities.

• Counter-Extremism Initiatives: Launching deradicalization programs and community resilience campaigns.

• Security Sector Reforms: Improving intelligence-sharing and law enforcement efficiency.

First Steps and Expected Impact

The committee is set to convene soon to outline an operational roadmap. Priorities will include resource allocation, inter-agency cooperation, and outreach programs to engage local communities in the fight against extremism.

This initiative comes at a crucial time. Over the past year, government-led offensives—backed by clan militias and international allies—have reclaimed significant territories in regions such as Hirshabelle, Galmudug, and Lower Shabelle. However, Al-Shabaab continues to launch deadly attacks, while ISIS-Somalia remains active, particularly in Puntland.

The Somali government’s renewed focus on a holistic approach—combining military strength with financial, ideological, and community-based countermeasures—aims to sustain recent gains and bring lasting security to the country. The success of this committee will be pivotal in shaping Somalia’s future stability and resilience against extremist threats.