Japan donates $4 million to counter IEDs in Somalia

GOOBJOOG NEWS|NAIROBI: Japan has donated $4 million to Somalia to support in countering improvised explosive devices that have become commonly deployed weapons by extremist groups in recent years.

According to a statement from the Japanese embassy in Kenya, the donation will be channelled through the United Nations Voluntary Trust Fund for Assistance in Mine Action.

“This important contribution will enable the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) to reduce the threat posed by explosive hazards and contribute to establishing a safe, secure and peaceful Somalia,” the statement read in part.

The new aid is in addition to $19 million already donated by Japan to mine action in Somalia.

In the last two years, several UN reports point to an exponential increase in IED use by the militant group Al-Shabaab. Logistical demands and the challenge of transporting huge bombs due to improved security have forced A-Shaabaab to resort to improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

The generous contribution from the People of Japan will assist in enhancing the capability of the Somali Police Force (SPF), both in Mogadishu and five the Federal Member States, to mitigate the threat of IEDs as well as strengthen the organizational capacity of the SPF by refurbishing their police headquarters in Mogadishu, the statement added.

UNMAS country director Qurat-ul-Ain Sadozai hailed the donation noting it will go a long way in fighting the IED menace in Somalia.

“The Japanese government supports UNMAS’ efforts which strengthens the Somali government’s capacity to cope with internal insecurity by providing technical support to the Police force, increasing the number of explosive management teams and equipping them. We hope this activity will contribute to national and social security in Somalia,” said Sadozai.