EASF Opens 35th Ordinary Policy Organs Meeting in Mogadishu

Mogadishu, Somalia – 13 December 2025 – The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) on Saturday opened its 35th Ordinary Policy Organs Meeting in Mogadishu, marking a major milestone in regional security cooperation under the theme “EASF: Two Decades of Commitment to Promoting Regional Peace and Security.” The meeting will run through 18 December 2025, beginning with sessions of the Experts Working Group (EWG) from 13–15 December. 

 This is the second time Somalia has hosted the high-level EASF meeting since joining the regional mechanism in 2014, underscoring the country’s growing role in regional peace and security efforts. 

Opening the meeting, Somalia’s Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Defense, Mr. Abdifatah Abulkadir Farah, welcomed delegates to Mogadishu, describing the city as a symbol of resilience and renewal. He emphasized that regional security is indivisible and called on experts to translate political commitments into practical, deployable capabilities. 

“As technical experts, you are the engine that powers our collective readiness,” Farah said, urging participants to focus on realistic planning, interoperability, innovation, and people-centered security. He noted that the region faces complex, cross-border threats including terrorism, maritime insecurity, trafficking, cyber threats, and climate-induced instability, requiring strong early-warning systems and coordinated responses. 

Representing the EASF Director, Brig. (Rtd) Paul Kahuria Njema, the EASF Joint Chief of Staff, Brig. Gen. Stephen Kashure, said the meeting comes at a critical time for the region. He stressed the need for vigilance and proactive responses to evolving security challenges, adding that the sessions will also review the EASF Strategic Plan 2026–2030. 

Chairperson of the Experts Working Group, Col. Ahmed Mohamed Hassan, said holding the meeting in Mogadishu highlights the real-world impact of EASF deliberations on communities striving for peace and stability. He noted that the agenda includes reviewing previous Council decisions, the regional security situation, lessons from the 2025 maritime command post exercise, and the 2025 Activity Plan alongside proposals for the 2026 plan and budget.

Outcomes from the Experts Working Group will inform subsequent meetings of Chiefs of Defense Staff and Ministers later in the week.