Araweelo News Network
East of South Sudan to Somalia now, where deadly bombings and assassinations of officials have weakened government efforts to expand its control beyond major towns. But now, the EU has announced it will start paying stipends to the country’s police officers, who are on the front line when it comes to security.
It’s the pass out parade for hundreds of newly trained police officers. For many it’s the end of a twelve month long intensive training. But the task ahead isn’t an easy one.
This city officer’s main task is to thwart deadly bombings carried out by Al Qaeda linked militant group Al-Shabaab -that seeks to topple Somalia’s government. But despite the dangers these men and women face on the streets of the capital – many have gone for months without a salary – the government relies mainly on support from donors -such as the the European Union to help fund its forces.
The EU recently appointed Veronique Lorenzo as its ambassador for Somalia- and upon her arrival to Mogadishu – the EU announced that it will pay the salary of 6,800 police officers starting next week.
“Its also proof of our long-term support to the Somali people. At the end of the day, what we want is better livelihoods, for Somalis with a higher standard of living, employment and be able to move around freely and who can benefit from services from the government,” EU Ambassador to Somalia Veronique Lorenzo said.
For these forces on the streets – the announcement comes as a relief – but for now – there’s no guarantee that the payment will be done every month. Nevertheless, it’s a move highly welcomed by Somali authorities.
This is Makka Al Mukarrama road – one of the most busiest and dangerous road in the capital – Al-Shabaab has in the past staged deadly bombings along this road
Security has become a key issue of concern – during this campaign period Mogadishu plans to host presidential polls later this month – and the city security commanders are not taking any chances – blocking several roads that leads to the airport – and the somalian parliament.
“We are keen observers and supporters of what has to be a credible and transparent process. And I’d like to very much salute the people involved in this process and those who’ve shouldered the responsibility,” Lorenzo said.
In October, Al-Shabaab carried out a deadly bombing at this police post in Afgooye – killing nine people among them – two senior police officers – highlighting the security challenges facing authorities.
However experts say that as the African Union readies to end its mission in Somalia by 2018 the next government must prioritise security -by rebuilding its security institutions in the country.