Thursday July 31, 2025
Djibouti (HOL) — The governments of Somalia and Djibouti have signed a landmark Status of Forces Agreement (SoFA) aimed at enhancing bilateral defense cooperation and formalizing the legal and operational framework for the deployment of Djiboutian troops in Somalia.
The agreement was signed in Djibouti by Somalia’s Minister of Defense, Ahmed Moallin Fiqi, and Djibouti’s Acting Minister of Defense, Ali Hassan Bahdoon, during a high-level ceremony attended by senior military and government officials from both nations.
“The signing of this agreement marks a significant step forward in our shared commitment to regional peace and security,” said Minister Fiqi. “Djibouti’s support remains vital to our efforts to restore stability and transfer security responsibilities to Somali institutions.”
Djiboutian forces have long played a critical role in peacekeeping operations in Somalia, particularly in the central regions, under the African Union’s stabilization mission. The new agreement deepens that collaboration, allowing for enhanced coordination in joint operations and a more structured engagement within Somalia’s evolving security landscape.
Djiboutian officials echoed Somalia’s sentiments, reaffirming their nation’s dedication to supporting Somalia’s sovereignty and rebuilding process. “This agreement reflects Djibouti’s enduring commitment to Somalia’s peace, stability, and long-term recovery,” said Minister Bahdoon.
The SoFA comes at a pivotal moment as Somalia accelerates efforts to reclaim territory from al-Shabaab and transition from reliance on foreign troops to a Somali-led security framework by the end of 2024.