Somalia strengthens response to explosive threat with Chinese support

The Somali Explosives Management Authority (SEMA) has completed a training programme to combat the threat of mines and explosive remnants of war. Funded by the Chinese Embassy, the programme has trained 81 participants from federal states including Hirshabelle, Puntland and Jubbaland, focusing on technical expertise, collaboration and proactive security measures. Participants stressed the importance of the programme in protecting communities that face explosive threats on a daily basis. SEMA Director-General Dahir Abdirahman Abdulle highlighted the partnership with China as a key step to saving lives and promoting stability. With over 1,500 civilian casualties of explosive devices registered by the UN last year, the programme is preparing Somali teams to better manage explosive risks. Conducted in three phases starting in October, the programme is an expression of a shared commitment to safeguard communities and move Somalia towards peace.