The Somali government has officially taken over a rehabilitation centre for former Al-Shabab fighters in Dhusa-mareb town of central Somalia.
The centre that was under the control of Galmudug state was formally handed over to Somali Ministry for Security.
Dozens of ex-combatant of Al-Shabab who deserted the group have been rehabilitated in the centre since 2014 under the supervision of Ahlu Sunna Wal-Jama’a.
Speaking at a handing ceremony held at the centre, Abdirashid Ibrahim Mohamed who directs the government program to re-integrate Al-Shabab defectors back into Somali Society has welcomed the move by Galmudug to hand over to the centre to Somali government.
Mohamed said the government assumed the responsibility of the centre which is housing dozens of former Al-Shabab members who are undergoing a rehabilitation programme.
“We have formally taken the command the Gulmudug-run rehabilitation centre in Dhusa-mareb town. Henceforth, the centre will be under the control of Somali ministry for Security,” said Mohamed.
He said the government will provide the logistics and other facilities.
“We will be responsible for providing funds and other logistical requirements. The centre will keep on re-integrating Al-Shabab defectors,” he pledged.
The ceremony was also attended by Galmudug state chief minister, Sheikh Mohamed Shakir, officials from Galmudug and members from civil society.
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