Mogadishu, Somalia, 05 November 2024 – The European Union Delegation to Somalia has delivered a batch of new equipment to the Somali National Army (SNA), in a symbolic handover ceremony held on Tuesday at Mogadishu’s General Dhagabadan Training Centre (GDTC). Provided under the European Peace Facility (EPF), this equipment – which includes military trucks, life-saving supplies, communications, C-IED,  and infrastructure, is set to bolster Somalia’s Security Forces capacity in its fight against al-Shabaab. As the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) draws down, the EU continues to increase its bilateral support to the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS).

From Left to Right: The EUTM Force Commander, Brigadier General Giuseppe ZIZZARI, EU Ambassador to Somalia, Karin JOHANSSON, and the FGS State Minister of Defence Omar Ali Omer, and EEAS Deputy Managing Director for Africa, Mathieu BRIENS

From the EU, the event was attended by the EEAS Deputy Managing Director for Africa, Mathieu BRIENS, EU Ambassador to Somalia, Karin JOHANSSON, and the EUTM Force Commander, Brigadier General Giuseppe ZIZZARI. From the FGS, the State Minister of Defence Omar Ali Omer, attended the ceremony. The newly delivered trucks are provided to improve the SNA’s mobility and operational reach, enabling them to access remote areas, transport personnel and equipment, and respond more rapidly to security challenges. This reinforcement also complements the EUTM’s ongoing support to train the SNA.

“This handover, funded by the EU, represents the comprehensive assistance the EU has extended to Somalia over the years,” remarked Mathieu Briens. Echoing his gratitude, State Minister of Defence Omar Ali Omer noted, “The EU’s support for our armed forces has been invaluable, and today’s delivery strengthens our capacity further.”

This delivery is part of a larger EU assistance package for Somalia, with EUR 110 million already committed to aid Somalia’s security sector transition. Through the EPF, the EU is equipping the SNA to take on full security responsibilities. Additional equipment, including non-lethal supplies and individual gear, will be delivered in upcoming periods, underscoring the EU’s dedication to Somalia’s secure and peaceful future.

Please see the video of the event below: