Army commanders visit central Somalia in preparation for upcoming operations against Al-Shabaab

Army commanders have recently conducted a tour of central Somalia in preparation for upcoming operations against the notorious extremist group Al-Shabaab. These high-ranking officials from the Somali National Army visited several Forward Operating Bases in the region, specifically focusing on Galgaduud, an area frequently targeted by Al-Shabaab attacks. The purpose of their visit was to assess the current situation and plan for the second phase of operations, which will take place in Jubaland and Southwest states.

During the tour, General Abdullahi Aden Hussein, Deputy Commander of the Land Forces, accompanied by the newly appointed Commander of the 21st Division, Abdi Salat Ali, and his predecessor, Hassan Jamici, inspected army bases in Wisil and Bahdo. The commanders confirmed that the upcoming mission would begin in Elbur, Wabxo, Hiiraan West, and Galhareri before progressing to Jubaland and Southwest states.

The Somali National Army has been working closely with international partners, including the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and US Africa Command, who have played a crucial role in counteracting Al-Shabaab’s activities. The initial phase of operations targeted the HirShabelle and Galmadug states, resulting in the elimination of 3,000 militants, while an additional 3,500 sustained fatal injuries.

To bolster their efforts, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has requested support from neighboring countries such as Kenya, Djibouti, and Ethiopia. It is projected that by December 2024, the majority of regions in Somalia will be liberated from Al-Shabaab’s grip, as they continue their fight against the vulnerable UN-backed federal government of Somalia.