Mogadishu on lockdown for Somalia Partnership Forum

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Somalia's capital Mogadishu was put under security lockdown, with roads closed for a two-day international forum that kicked off in AU military base, Halane compound on Tuesday amid calls for sustained peace in the Horn of Africa nation, Garowe Online reports.

The International Somalia Partnership Forum which brought together participants from 50 countries across the globe is being held in Somalia for the first time due to prevailing relative peace.

The forum will discuss the development partnership in Somalia in the areas of social development, economy, security, policy, and justice.

"Convening the international forum in Mogadishu is a testimony that the federal government of Somalia has successfully managed the international relationships and image of Somalia," according to a statement from the Ministry of Information.

It said the government is determined to redouble its efforts to develop its country and the people and called on Somalis to take the lead in the stabilization and development of Somalia.

In his opening remarks, Francisco Madeira, head of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), said the Horn of African nation was moving towards peace.

Madeira said the AU mission's troops in collaborating with the local security forces to open main supply routes and securing population centers as well as mentoring and executing joint operations with the Somali Security Forces.

"While the new security reality has enhanced the implementation of AMISOM's Concept of Operations (CONOPs) and the Transition Plan, leading to the recovery of al-Shabab strongholds in Lower Shabelle, much more is required, particularly from Somalia's security investors," he told participants.

The CONOPs provides a framework to guide the implementation of AMISOM's gradual transfer of security responsibilities to the Somali security forces and exit from Somalia.

Madeira said the discussions to be held during the two-day conference will generate the necessary commitment, momentum, and support that Somalia needs on its journey to a brighter future.