In a comprehensive address, Somalia’s outgoing military chief, General Odawaa Yusuf Raage, provided valuable insights into the nation’s security landscape and the progress made during his tenure. His remarks highlighted key achievements, acknowledged challenges, and issued calls for crucial reforms to safeguard Somalia’s stability and protect its people.
Expressing gratitude to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud for entrusting him with the crucial role, Raage emphasized the importance of global partnerships in bolstering Somalia’s military capabilities. He commended the United States, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Kenya, and Uganda for their invaluable training and support, which have significantly enhanced the skills and knowledge of Somali forces.
However, Raage underscored the grave threat posed by the pervasive issue of personnel lacking proper identification documents. He urged Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre to launch a nationwide campaign to address this pressing concern, stressing the need to safeguard the rights of Somali citizens and prevent potential security breaches caused by undocumented individuals infiltrating the military ranks.
“If there are individuals without passports, IDs, or any form of identification, a commission must be established to address this issue,” Raage warned. “Otherwise, the country faces a significant risk from the threat of infiltration.”
Acknowledging the challenges faced by Somali forces, Raage revealed that even after three months of training, some recruits lack proper identification, hampering their reintegration into society after service. He emphasized the urgency of implementing stringent vetting processes at all levels, from university admissions to secondary schools, to mitigate this risk.
Raage also paid tribute to the sacrifices made by Somali soldiers, expressing condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in combat and wishing speedy recoveries to the wounded. He commended the dedication and professionalism of the officers who worked alongside him, acknowledging their unwavering support during his tenure.
Looking ahead, Raage called for continued cooperation and support from international partners, stressing the need for sustained training and capacity-building efforts to enhance Somalia’s security capabilities further.
As he transfers command to his successor, Odawaa Yusuf Raage, Raage expressed confidence in the incoming leadership and urged all stakeholders to unite in addressing the nation’s pressing security challenges, fostering stability, and protecting the rights of Somali citizens.
