Director General Chairs High-Level Meeting on Counterterrorism and the Role of ICA

The Director General of the Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA), Mustafa Sheikh Ali Duhulow, chaired a crucial meeting focused on the ongoing fight against terrorism and the agency’s role in supporting security forces engaged in national liberation efforts.

The meeting opened with a keynote address emphasizing the moral and national duty to free the country from terrorist groups such as ISIS and Al-Shabaab. Special guest Sheikh Bashir Ahmed Salaad, Chairman of the Somali Scholars Association, highlighted the necessity of ICA’s active participation in counterterrorism efforts and the agency’s responsibility in supporting national security.

During the session, Fu’aad Abdullahi Osman, Director of ICA’s 6th Branch in Puntland, provided an operational report on the agency’s offices in the region. He emphasized that all ICA branches have been on high alert since the anti-ISIS operations commenced in Puntland.

Departmental directors also presented updates, outlining strategic plans to enhance service efficiency and address the needs of communities affected by terrorist activities. Key measures included streamlining ICA services and ensuring that citizens in liberated areas have access to essential documentation.

Director General Mustafa Sheikh Ali Duhulow urged agency officials to intensify passport issuance efforts to facilitate national security operations. He reiterated ICA’s commitment to expediting travel document processing to meet urgent needs, particularly those related to security and stabilization efforts, as part of a broader strategy to reinforce national peace and stability.

To strengthen coordination, a five-member committee was appointed to monitor emergency developments and oversee responses to security challenges, particularly in areas where ISIS militants remain active in the Calmiskaad mountains of Puntland.

ICA remains steadfast in its mission to support national security through efficient immigration services, contributing to ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability across Somalia.