Somalia and Saudi Arabia sign three-year agreement to strengthen Islamic affairs cooperation

The Minister of Endowments and Islamic Affairs of the Federal Government of Somalia, Sheikh Mukhtar Robow Ali, during a recent official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, signed a cooperation agreement on the development of Islamic affairs with his Saudi counterpart in Jeddah.

The agreement was signed with the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Dr. Abdullatif bin Abdulaziz Al Sheikh. The memorandum of cooperation will run for a period of three years, from 2026 to 2028.

Under the agreement, Somalia and Saudi Arabia will collaborate to strengthen and accelerate Islamic affairs, with particular focus on the development and management of Awqaf (endowments), capacity-building programs for mosque imams and khateebs, and the promotion of moderate Islamic teachings.

The cooperation includes providing specialized training courses for imams and preachers aimed at preventing extremist ideologies, enhancing religious awareness, and promoting peaceful coexistence. The agreement also covers participation in Islamic knowledge exchange platforms, international conferences, and global forums, as well as cooperation in Qur’an memorization competitions.

The agreement reflects the strong and historic ties between Somalia and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and underscores the shared commitment of both countries to promoting moderation, religious education, and the proper management of Islamic institutions.

The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs of Somalia reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening international partnerships that contribute to the development of Islamic affairs, capacity building, and the promotion of peace and stability within Somali society.