MOGADISHU, February 18, 2026 – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has announced an amnesty offer to members of Al-Shabaab, urging them to renounce violence and take advantage of government rehabilitation programmes.
The appeal was made during a televised address marking the start of the holy month of Ramadan, in which the president congratulated the Somali people and Muslims worldwide on the occasion.
Addressing young fighters within the militant group, President Hassan Sheikh called on them to defect and return to society. “Young people within Al-Shabaab, I say to you: come out. Your country and your people need you. The government has offered you amnesty and rehabilitation,” he said.
The president reaffirmed that while the government will continue military operations against Al-Shabaab, it is also prioritising efforts to reintegrate former members who abandon the group, enabling them to contribute to national reconstruction and development.
In his Ramadan message, Hassan Sheikh also urged Somalis to strengthen unity, solidarity and mutual support, particularly in assisting communities affected by ongoing drought conditions across parts of the country.
He paid special tribute to the Somali National Armed Forces and other security agencies, praising their sacrifices and round-the-clock efforts to defend the country, protect civilians, maintain security and stabilise areas recaptured from the militants.
Somalia has intensified its campaign against the Al-Qaeda-linked group in recent years, combining military offensives with reconciliation initiatives aimed at encouraging defections and supporting long-term stability.
