Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail “Fartaag” is an accomplished security sector leader,
strategist, and reformist. Renowned for his profound contribution to peace,
security and reconciliation Abdullahi “Fartaag” holds over three decades of
experience in senior security sector roles both in on the level of the Federal
Member States and in the Federal Government of Somalia.

Educated at the Jaalle Siyaad Military Academy, Abdullahi “Fartaag’s ascended
through the ranks of the Somali National Army (SNA) where he was renowned for
his tactical and strategic excellence. His direct contribution to the security sector
reform and development was recognized as he was appointed to head the SNA
reorganization in 2001 – 2004. In this role, Abdullahi “Fartaag” led the process of
transformation dedicated to creation of modern effective National military force.

Building on structural reforms implemented under his leadership, Abdullahi
“Fartaag” took the command of the Section 3 Command in Jubaland in 2006 –
2007, where his leadership contributed to the security of Somalia’s southern
regions.

Informed by the experience gained as a field commander, Abdullahi “Fartaag”
continued with his reformation mission as he was reappointed in a role of the
Head of Military Re-organization in Jubaland in 2009 – 2011 and consequently took
the command of SNA 60th Division located in Dollow (Gedo Region) in 2011 – 2013

Abdullahi “Fartaag’s” visionary contributions to security sector leadership and
reforms and his dedication to promoting peace and stability took him to serve as
a Vice-President of Jubaland in 2013 – 2016 where he focused his efforts primarily
on the reconciliation and security sector portfolios.

Since 2016, Abdullahi “Fartaag” continued shaping Somalia’s democratic and
federalism processes within a new role, as a representative of the people of Gedo
region in the Federal Parliament’s Upper House. As a senator, he pursued further
reforms geared towards lasting peace and security. He was rewarded for his
thorough work and reelected to the Upper House in July 2021.

Recognizing his exceptional contribution to peace and security, Federal
Government Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre appointed Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail
“Fartaag” into the position of the Minister of Internal Security in April 2024.