Mogadishu, Somalia In a critical move to enhance national security and civilian safety, the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) is bolstering its support for the Somali National Army’s (SNA) Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit to counter the persistent threat posed by Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
On Monday, Somalia’s Minister of Defence, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, held high-level discussions in Mogadishu with Francis O’Grady, representing the United Nations, focusing on strengthening the operational capacity of Somalia’s EOD teams. The meeting underscored a shared commitment to neutralizing the growing IED threat, which continues to claim lives and hinder peacebuilding efforts across the country.
According to the United Nations, IEDs remain one of the most severe obstacles to peace and stability in Somalia. In the past year alone, the country has recorded *597 IED incidents, resulting in *more than 1,400 casualties—a grim testament to the scale of the challenge.
These devices, often used by extremist groups, target both civilians and security personnel, disrupting daily life, humanitarian operations, and government functions.
UNMAS has been a longstanding partner of the Somali government in efforts to clear explosive threats and train national security forces. Its support to the SNA’s EOD unit includes specialized training, equipment provision, and technical assistance aimed at building sustainable national capacity to detect, defuse, and safely dispose of explosive hazards.
Minister Fiqi praised the partnership, stating that the support from UNMAS is “vital in safeguarding the lives of our people and empowering our national army to carry out its duties more effectively.” Francis O’Grady echoed the sentiment, reaffirming the UN’s dedication to helping Somalia build a future free of the fear and devastation caused by IEDs.
The meeting is seen as a strong signal of continued collaboration between Somalia and international partners to address explosive threats, restore public confidence, and pave the way for long-term peace and reconstruction.
