Puntland begins reduction of security forces

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Puntland begins reduction of security forces

 

Garowe (1 November 2005) -

 

Puntland State of Somalia has embarked on its first ever Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) Programme of 500 security force personnel with a view to reducing the number of security personnel, while increasing peace, security and development in the state. The exercise is expected to target a total of 1,000 forces by mid-2006.

 

The programme was requested by the Puntland Government and is supported by UNDP. Vice President (Acting President) of Puntland Hassan Dahir stressed that, "DDR is essential to alleviate the financial pressures now facing the Government. It will also make the forces more efficient and effective." Once completed, this exercise is expected to free up an annual USD 1 million from the state budget that will support the provision of essential services such as education and health.

 

All security force personnel have now been registered with the Government, and a new DDR policy will guide the selection of those eligible to participate in the programme. After handing over their weapons to their commanders, the participants will be provided with on-the-job training and placement, formal education, rural resettlement or support to start their own micro-enterprises.

 

Speaking at one of the demobilisation events in Garowe today, UNDP Resident Representative Maxwell Gaylard said that, "DDR and security sector reform are fundamental to sustaining peace and prosperity in Somalia by controlling small arms and helping government provide services to its people. At the same time it will help those that have long served in the security forces to find new means to support themselves and their families."

 

The DDR programme is a component of UNDP's Rule of Law and Security Programme that supports Somali efforts towards re-establishing peace and security in Somalia.

 

For more information please contact:

Sandra Macharia, Information Officer, UNDP Somalia

Email:

sandra.macharia@undp.org

Phone: (245) 20 4183640/2