Somalia: PM warns oil reserves at risk without strong military  

MOGADISHU, April 13, 2026 — Somalia’s Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre warned Monday that the country’s natural resources, particularly potential oil reserves, could face external threats unless the nation builds a military capable of defending its assets.

Speaking about shifting global power dynamics, Barre said competition for resources was intensifying at a time when trust in international institutions and the traditional rules-based order was weakening. He cautioned that countries lacking military strength risk losing control over their wealth to stronger actors.

“A nation without a strong military to defend its faith, culture, and land has no dignity or existence; if the army collapses, the country collapses,” Barre said, adding that the capability of a national force is the primary measure of a country’s survival.

The prime minister stressed that protecting natural resources was no longer rhetorical but essential for sovereignty, noting that oil in particular was becoming a growing focus of international interest. He urged Somalia to move beyond statements and ensure its territorial and economic integrity.

Barre called on the public to remain vigilant and support efforts to strengthen the national army, describing military development as the only viable path to securing the country’s future and safeguarding resources for coming generations.

GAROWE ONLINE