Waagacusub.com-In this Africa Center roundtable, Somalia's National Security Advisor shares his vision for establishing a stable Somalia. Priority reforms include strengthening oversight of the security sector and improving security support to rural communities most vulnerable to Al Shabaab.

During the tenure of President Mohammed Farmajo, Somalia has developed a comprehensive transition plan for its security, undertaken reforms of the Somali National Army, and strengthened ties with regional and international security partners. This has been accompanied by a decline in Al Shabaab violence against citizens and the reopening of the Mogadishu Stadium to sporting events. Nonetheless, Al Shabaab remains resilient, regularly mounting attacks on security forces and populated areas alike while maintaining control over large expanses of rural Somalia.

In this Africa Center for Strategic Studies roundtable, Somalia’s National Security Advisor, Abdisaid Ali, shares his perspective on the current security environment in Somalia, efforts to curb corruption and promote reconciliation, and means of strengthening institutions to enable the Somali state to meet its security requirements. He is joined by Andre LeSage from Sage Research and Shannon Smith, Director of Engagement at the Africa Center, who identify operational and structural priorities needed to sustain progress.