HirShabelle leader accuses Somalia’s neighbouring of arming regional states

HirShabelle State president Ali Osoble has alleged neighboring countries are arming regional states in Somalia.

Without elaborating, Osoble called on the Federal Government to look into the matter noting the development could further destabilize the country.

It is not clear which countries Osoble was referring to but noted the inflow of illegal arms into regional states from neighbouring countries would lead to more conflict in Somalia.

Kenya and Ethiopia are actively involved in the war against Al-Shabaab in Somalia through African Union force Amisom. The two countries also maintain troops in Somalia outside Amisom. Djibouti and Uganda also contribute troops to Amisom.

Meanwhile the regional leader said his administration would soon re-open Isaley airstrip to enable planes carrying the leafy stimulant khat use the facility. Ethiopia and Kenya are major exporters of khat to Somalia.

Osoble was speaking Saturday during the re-opening of El-ma’an port in Lower Shabelle.