East Africa leaders assures somali's new president of their support even as he extends an olive branch to Al Shabaab

East Africa region leaders have assured Somali’s new president, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed commonly known as ‘Farmajo’, of their continued support towards rebuilding the war-torn country.

Kenyan president, Uhuru Kenyatta who was one of the high dignitaries who attended Mohamed's inauguration in Mogadishu yesterday, congratulated the people of Somalia for the peaceful elections on February 8th.

"The Somali people have spoken and they have great expectations of the new government in rebuilding and developing the nation," President Uhuru said.

Uhuru in his speech acknowledged Somali was facing huge challenges at the moment but if they joined hands together they will certainly emerge victorious.

"You, Mr President also assume office as we face an enormous challenge and we are collaborating to restore regional stability I hope all regional bodies will help rebuild Somalia and I assure the nation that my administration will remain steadfast towards its contribution to restore peace. We shall continue to work with other AMISOM troops for reconstruction and development of Somalia," the President stated.

Speaking at the inauguration, Ethiopian Prime Minister, Hailemariam Desalegn Boshe also offered his country’s support.

“The people of Somalia have overwhelmingly given you their voices to lead them towards peace, stability and economic prosperity; it is my earnest hope that your election as president will bring Somalia back to its feet. At this occasion I would like to assure you that the people and government of Ethiopia and myself will continue to stand by you sir, in your journey towards ensuring lasting peace and stability” Boshe said to a thunderous applause.

Mohamed on his side assured the east African leaders that Somalia will not interfere with their internal affairs and looked forward to working with them.

He promised to begin the process of rebuilding Somali 's national army, appreciating the key role AMISON forces have played in restoring peace in parts of Somalia.

“14 years they have sacrificed lives and resources to rebuild our national forces to ultimately take care of our country’s security, great progress has been made towards that goal and more remain remains to be done, my government will work with AMISON towards achieving that goal in order for Somali to attain its national army that will take care of its people and county” Farmajo promised the people of Somali.

Meanwhile he also extended an olive branch to members of Al Shabaab calling on them to denounce violence and join in rebuilding of the country.

“I am telling them, you cannot stop the destiny of 12 million Somalis, Somalia is united today, we are ready to welcome you back if you denounce violence, we will help you so there is no need for you to destroy your country”

Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo, a former prime minister who has dual Somali-.U.S citizenship, won the presidency after two rounds of voting by members of parliament.

He beat incumbent President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who conceded.

The East Africa region leaders called on regional bodies like IGAD, AU and International community to give necessary support to Somalia.

Political analyst have however cautioned that the biggest challenge facing Mohammed as he assumes office apart from insecurity and the ongoing drought, is managing the huge expectations the people of Somalia have banked on his shoulders.