Somalia has officially unveiled a comprehensive national strategy to combat improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
Somalia new C-IED strategy is a major milestone in its ongoing fight against al-Shabaab terrorism and insurgent violence.
Somalia Introduces its Strategy to Counter Improvised Explosive Devices
The initiative was introduced during a high-level event in Mogadishu in September.
It aims to coordinate national efforts to dismantle IED networks, improve detection and disposal capabilities, and safeguard civilian lives.
The move follows a year-long assessment of Somalia’s counter-IED (C-IED) capacity, which began in 2023.
A Unified National Framework Against IEDs
Awes Hagi Yusuf Ahmed, Somalia’s National Security Advisor said:
“This is a historic milestone for our country.
Never before have we had a unified, nationally owned framework to address the improvised explosive devices threat.
This strategy represents a shift from reactive measures to a proactive, intelligence-led approach anchored in national ownership.”
Somalia New C-IED Strategy Emphasizes Intelligence Sharing
Somalia new C-IED strategy outlines plans to establish additional Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units within the Somali National Army (SNA) and enhance collaboration among government institutions.
It emphasizes intelligence sharing, preventive action, and tighter control of materials that could be used in bomb-making.
Key Components of Somalia New C-IED Strategy
The strategy sets the groundwork for:
- A national electronic tracking system to monitor chemicals and materials used to manufacture explosives.
- A national C-IED center to coordinate operations and training across agencies.
- Border security enhancements to prevent smuggling of explosive components.
- Public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the threat of IEDs.
- Efforts to disrupt terrorist financing networks that support the supply chain of bomb-making materials.
Somalia’s Minister of Defence, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, highlighted the collective nature of the effort, he said:
“This is not only a military effort.
It is a whole-of-government and whole-of-society mission to protect Somali lives and secure our future.”
Escalating Threat from IEDs
IED attacks remain one of Somalia’s deadliest security challenges.
In 2024 alone, over 600 explosions resulted in over 1,400 deaths and injuries.
This is according to Action on Armed Violence (AOAV).
The organization’s data shows that 61% of IED victims in the last decade were civilians.
These numbers place Somalia among the top five countries most affected by these attacks globally.
Al-Shabaab and Houthi Rebels Collaboration
Complicating the fight are reports of collaboration between al-Shabaab and Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen.
Somali authorities have warned of attempts by Houthis to smuggle drones, explosives, and weapons to al-Shabaab fighters.
Many materials used in bomb-making are also sourced locally.
From captured ordnance to chemicals used in agriculture and construction.
Omar Ali Abdi, Somalia’s State Minister of Defence said:
“We are engaged in a bitter war with an enemy that relies on mines and IEDs as weapons of choice.
Overcoming this threat is critical to liberating more areas and protecting our forces.”
The Role of the United Nations and International Partners
The United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) has played an important role in supporting Somalia’s C-IED capabilities.
Till now, UNMAS has trained and equipped 61 Somali National Army EOD teams and 21 Somali Police Force units.
As well as conducted train-the-trainer programs to ensure sustainable skill transfer within the security sector.
U.N. Special Representative to Somalia Praises the National C-IED Strategy
U.N. Special Representative to Somalia, James Swan, praised the strategy as an example of strong national leadership and long-term vision, he said:
“The challenge now lies in sustained implementation.
With continued national resolve and coordinated support from international partners, Somalia can significantly reduce the IED threat, protect its people, and strengthen national stability.”
Safer Somalia
Somalia new C-IED strategy represents a coordinated, forward-looking approach to one of Somalia’s most urgent security challenges.
Somalia aims to curb the devastating impact of IEDs and build a safer, more resilient future for its citizens.
By combining law enforcement, intelligence, community engagement, and international cooperation.
As Somalia continues its journey toward lasting peace, this strategy marks a critical step in making the fight against terrorism comprehensive, nationally led, and globally supported.
