Somalia’s Prime Minister, H.E. Mr. Hamza Abdi Barre, addressed participants at the Heritage Institute Ninth Forum on Reconciliation, Elections, and Federalism.
The Prime Minister stated that the government is ready to listen to and accept opposition views. He emphasized that Somalia faces multiple serious challenges, noting that there are “five enemies attacking our country,” and questioned which of these threats political actors are truly prepared to confront.
Mr. Hamza highlighted progress made under the National Transformation Plan (NTP) 2060, describing it as a nearly 30-year action plan jointly developed by the government and civil society, with contributions from more than 400 national experts.
He outlined key achievements, including:
- Strengthening the national armed forces
- Securing the electoral process
- Advancing constitutional reform
He urged political leaders and stakeholders not to undermine these gains.
The Prime Minister announced plans to convene a national reconciliation conference in Mogadishu following the forum, stressing that dialogue and reconciliation should replace armed conflict. He said that returning to violence is an outdated approach that Somalia has tried before and must now move beyond.
Mr. Hamza concluded by expressing his vision for a new Somalia founded on peaceful politics, responsible leadership, and mutual acceptance among all sides.