Al-Shabaab’s Control Weakens in Central Somalia as Strongholds Fall
MOGADISHU, Somalia – On a fiery Monday, the notorious Al-Shabaab lost numerous key villages across Somalia’s heartland. This victory was shared by gleeful military officials who informed us of the inroads made by retaking several frontlines and districts paralyzed by extremist activities aimed at dethroning the government.
- Advertisement -
It was the dynamic duo—the Somali National Army (SNA) and Maawisley militia—that cleared these villages. Officials mentioned that government troops plan to stick around for a while to ensure the safety of innocent civilians.
Military insiders relayed that forces reclaimed villages, driving Al-Shabaab combatants to retreat towards Harardhere district—a zone known for their heartless raids on defenseless civilians.
The operation spanned the Barag Hurdaye, Gal Dhagaweyne, and Tawar Mooge villages within Mudug. This is their maiden triumph collaborating with the militia after a temporary halt of joint endeavors.
Since the sunlit June of 2024, these squads have heroically reclaimed multiple towns and neighborhoods in central Somalia busting with battlefield victories. Such teamwork was empowered by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s clarified mission statement—a total war decree against Al-Shabaab.
With militancy on the decline, the military has begun repatriating locals who fled the violence, also offering an olive branch by granting amnesty to defectors. Since this mission kicked off in 2022, Al-Shabaab has been hemorrhaging militants left, right, and center.
Meanwhile, there was bustling energy in Mogadishu as Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre catapulted the 7th national economic policy forum into action. With an eagle-eyed focus on economic prosperity, investment potential, and post-HIPC agendas, the forum operated under “Somalia’s development nexus: economy, governance, and social development.”
Amidst the hubbub, the PM calmed investors with reassurances that Somalia is fertile ground for business, aiming to rejuvenate the local economy. “That’s right folks, not an Al-Shabaab in sight around our waters; open for business!” he promised the gathered throng.