Collective Effort, A Solution Against Terrorism

The war against terror in Somalia seems to take longer than anticipated. Much resources have been used, lives and livelihood lost. Somalia has become one the most dangerous .Al shabaab and terrorist operatives  have been a menace roaming freely and operating with utmost impunity. Efforts by Kenya and the UN to restore peace by completely weakening and flushing out these operatives have not done much. These operatives seem to enjoy a vast network, financial resources and huge weapon supply.

Leaders who spoke during the Somalia Frontline States Summit on regional efforts towards stabilization of Somalia and eradication of terrorism, expressed concern that the war against terrorism in Somalia is taking long.

President William Ruto has said the war against terrorism in the Horn of Africa calls for a collective effort.

He noted that the Region must adopt a common strategy for combating terrorism and their associated criminality.

He said through common endeavor, leaders have the power to rebuild stable societies and secure the people’s well-being.

 “We must dismantle terror networks and financial support infrastructure; this must be complemented by countering radicalization and the propagation of extremism,” he said.

Present during the summit were Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Djibouti President Ismail Omar Guelleh, Ethiopia Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, among other leaders.

During the Summit, Kenya, Somalia, Djibouti and Ethiopia agreed to join forces in restoring peace and stability in the Al-Shabaab-prone areas of Somalia.

“Following deliberations, the Summit agreed to jointly plan and organize a robust operational campaign at the frontline states level, of search and destroy Al-Shabaab on multiple frontlines aiming at the key strategic Al-Shabaab strongholds across the south and central Somalia,” read a joint statement.

The Heads of State also agreed to rebuild and modernize Somalia’s security forces to ensure they are well prepared to contain the Al-Shabaab.

They lauded the National Consultative Council of the Federal Government of Somalia and the Federal Member States for working together to confront terrorism in the country.

At the same time, President Ruto asked Somalis to rise bravely to seize their country from the clutches of the al-Shabaab terrorist group in particular, he pointed out the involvement of local communities in countering Al-Shabaab terrorists is “extremely brave and remarkable”.

“We congratulate President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on this radical strategic turnaround and the success that is now evident in many parts of Somalia. In order to sustain the resurgent momentum of the achievements made by Somalia, President Ruto explained, it is time for us to firmly commit to improve our overall capacity to intervene effectively.

“This can be achieved by enhancing the complementary mobilization of law enforcement, intelligence and financial resources''. Read the joint statement in part