MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somalia’s National Consultative Council [NCC] conference opened Tuesday in the capital, Mogadishu, with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud presiding over discussions focused on national security, anti-terror operations, economic development, humanitarian conditions, and the country’s electoral process.
The summit brings together leaders from the federal government, regional states, including Galmudug, Hirshabelle, South West, and SSC-Khatumo, as well as the Banadir Regional Administration. It marks the first official meeting of the council in months, after two previous delays caused by political disagreements and regional boycotts.
In opening remarks, Mohamud urged unity among political stakeholders, calling on all sides to put national interest first. “Somalia is at a defining moment,” he said. “We must work together to ensure lasting peace, economic growth, and a stable path toward elections.”
The conference is expected to last several days. Officials say key outcomes could shape the direction of Somalia’s political transition, including timelines for future elections and plans to intensify military operations against the al-Qaida-linked group al-Shabab.
