Somalia Disability Network (SDN) warmly congratulates the Federal Republic of Somalia on marking the 82second anniversary of the establishment of the Somalia Police Force 1943. For more than eight decades, the police have served the nation with dedication, and for over three decades in particular, they have operated in an extremely challenging post-conflict environment marked by civil war, armed conflict, and the fight against terrorism. This service has taken place in a country emerging from widespread destruction, with limited resources and immense institutional challenges.
SDN recognizes and appreciates the efforts of the Federal Government of Somalia to reform and strengthen the police force through improved training, discipline, equipping, and promotion’s These efforts demonstrate a strong commitment to rebuilding national security institutions and restoring public trust in the rule of law.
Many police officers have sustained permanent disabilities after losing limbs or suffering serious injuries in the line of duty while sacrificing for the safety and security of the nation. Some of these officers report losing access to healthcare, adequate medical treatment, employment, or facing termination and reductions in their salaries after acquiring disabilities.
There is restriction of the police recruitment the disability people any person with some kind of impairments. Most officer with disability suffer discrimination in the payment and rank promotion.
SDN strongly recommends that police officers who acquire disabilities as a result of their service be protected, supported, and meaningfully integrated into other suitable roles within the police system or public service. Their experience, skills, and sacrifice should be valued rather than sidelined.
Furthermore, SDN calls on the Somalia Police Force to establish a dedicated Disability Services Unit within its institutional structure. This unit should focus on two key areas:
- Providing care, rehabilitation, and rights protection for police officers who acquire disabilities in the line of duty; and
- Strengthening police capacity to handle cases, complaints, and crimes involving persons with disabilities in a respectful, accessible, and rights-based manner.
Honoring the sacrifices of police officers with disabilities is not only a matter of justice but also a vital step toward inclusive, professional, and people-centered policing in Somalia.
