By Shire Abdi - Reporter
Somalia, 25 April 2026 Somalia signed a cooperation agreement with the Centre for Civilians in Conflict to strengthen civilian protection during military operations, the Ministry of Defence said Saturday.
The agreement was signed by Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi and CIVIC’s Africa Director Vianney Bisimwa.
The deal focuses on enhancing collaboration to reduce civilian harm during armed conflict and to promote procedures aligned with national laws and international humanitarian law, the statement said.
It also supports the implementation of Somalia’s national policy on civilian protection in armed conflict, which the ministry said positions Somalia as the first country in Africa to adopt such a framework.
The agreement includes provisions for training, awareness and capacity-building for the Somali armed forces to ensure military operations are conducted with professionalism, accountability and respect for civilian lives.
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Somalia’s cabinet approved the civilian protection policy earlier this month to strengthen safeguards for civilians and improve oversight of military operations.
The policy provides guidance to security forces on minimizing civilian harm and aligning operations with international humanitarian law.
Fiqi said the ministry places strong emphasis on civilian protection, adding that the policy reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of Somali citizens.
Officials from both sides attended the signing ceremony, including senior defence ministry officials and CIVIC representatives.