Somalia has never had a centralized identification system for its citizens and eligible residents, though decentralized manual identification systems were operational in local municipalities prior to 1991.

The new ID system aims to promote linkages with delivery of services by the private sector, link IDs with electronic Know Your Customer (KYC) verification in the financial sector and coordinate social protection programs such as unconditional cash transfers. IDs would also play a crucial role in security, displacement and democratization processes.

Dr. Nur made a technical presentation to development partners that outlined the envisioned identification infrastructure, legal and regulatory framework, implementation schedule and budget estimations. He stressed that the Office of the President envisions a new federal agency would be established to manage the ID system.

According to army officials of the 43rd battalion, 11 Al-Shabaab fighters were killed by government forces in Muuse Haji village following heavy fighting between government forces and the militia group. Army commanders from the 43rd battalion of the SNA has reported that they conducted a well organized operation against the Al-Shabaab in the area, which was fruitful.

Meanwhile, commander of the 58th Division announced that the Al-Shabaab commander of Muuse Haji Village known as Ali Abdullahi Sadaq surrendered to the government forces and was paraded in Barsaguuni location. Allied forces have been conducting operations in recent weeks in Barsanguuni area, and have received aerial support from friendly forces.