Mogadishu, Somalia: The recent lifting of a 31-year-old arms embargo on Somalia has sparked both hope and concern within the nation and throughout the East African region. While the move is seen as crucial for enabling Somalia to better equip its security forces and combat the Al-Shabaab insurgency, it also raises questions about the potential for weapons proliferation and misuse.

A Long-Awaited Move:

The UN Security Council’s decision to lift the embargo comes after years of lobbying by the Somali government. Proponents argue that it will allow Somalia to acquire the necessary weapons and equipment to effectively combat Al-Shabaab, a terrorist organization that has plagued the country for over a decade.

Regional Concerns:

However, the lifting of the embargo has also raised concerns among some regional actors, particularly members of the East African Community (EAC). These countries fear that increased access to weapons could lead to their illicit flow across porous borders, potentially fueling violence and instability. Additionally, Somaliland, a breakaway region in northern Somalia, expressed concerns that the embargo’s removal could empower warlords and further destabilize the region.

Transparency and Accountability:

The potential for weapon misuse is not without basis. The UN Panel of Experts on Somalia has previously documented instances of weapons donated to the government ending up in the hands of Al-Shabaab. To address these concerns, the UN Security Council has imposed several conditions on the lifting of the embargo. Somalia is required to establish a national inventory of weapons, implement vetting procedures for private security firms seeking to import weapons, and ensure that these weapons are not diverted to unauthorized entities.

Domestic Challenges:

Implementing these measures will be a significant challenge for the Somali government, particularly given the country’s complex federal structure. Regional governments within Somalia enjoy significant autonomy, and the legal framework for managing weapons remains unclear. This necessitates strong collaboration and communication between Mogadishu and regional authorities to ensure effective weapons control throughout the country.

Building Trust:

Addressing concerns from both regional actors and its own citizens will be key for the Somali government to ensure the success of the lifted embargo. Demonstrating transparency and accountability in weapons management will be crucial for building trust and mitigating the potential for misuse.

The Path Forward:

The lifting of the arms embargo presents a unique opportunity for Somalia to strengthen its security forces and address the ongoing threat of terrorism. However, it is important to acknowledge the associated risks and implement appropriate safeguards to prevent weapons from falling into the wrong hands. Regional cooperation and collaboration, along with a commitment to transparency and accountability, will be essential for ensuring that the lifting of the embargo contributes to a safer and more stable Somalia.