MOGADISHU — The Federal Government of Somalia on Tuesday launched a high-level meeting to advance the second phase of the Joint Police Programme (JPP II), as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen public security and policing services nationwide.
The meeting was officially opened by the Minister of Internal Security, Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail, also known as Fartaag, and focused on reviewing and approving the programme’s 2026 annual work plan and budget. The session was co-chaired with international partners supporting the initiative.
Senior security officials attended the meeting, including state ministers responsible for security, the Special Assistant Commander of the Somali Police Force, and high-ranking police officers. Representatives from international partners were also present, among them the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), UNTMIS, UN Women, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), AUSSOM, as well as the European Union and the United Kingdom.
Discussions centered on the progress achieved under JPP II, coordination between federal and state institutions, and lessons learned from earlier phases of the programme. Participants also examined practical steps to accelerate the delivery of effective, people-centered policing and public security services across Somalia.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the Program Steering Committee formally approved the JPP II work plan and budget for 2026. Officials said the approval marks an important step in strengthening Somalia’s security institutions, particularly by enhancing the capacity, professionalism, and accountability of the police force.
In his remarks, Minister Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail expressed appreciation to international donors and partners for their continued support, noting that JPP II will play a key role in building a capable and community-oriented police service. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to security sector reform as a foundation for peace, stability, and state-building in Somalia.
