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Defence Minister Fiqi Urges Troops to Prepare For Next Phase of Offensive against Al-Shabaab

Storyline:Security, War on Al-Shabaab

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi has urged soldiers undergoing training in the Middle Shabelle region to strengthen their discipline and operational readiness, saying they would play a key role in the next phase of military operations against the Islamist militant group Al-Shabaab.

Speaking during a visit to the Qorilow Military Training School, Fiqi told the troops that continued training and preparedness would be critical as Somalia’s security forces intensify efforts to reclaim areas still under Al-Shabaab’s control.

“The responsibility ahead requires professionalism, discipline and readiness,” the minister told the soldiers, according to the Ministry of Defence. He said the government remained committed to improving the capabilities of the Somali National Army as part of broader efforts to strengthen national security.

Fiqi was accompanied by the Commander of the Somali National Armed Forces, Brig. Gen. Ibrahim Mohamed Mohamud, who also encouraged the soldiers to make the most of their training and maintain high standards of vigilance and cohesion.

The army chief said the troops training at Qorilow were expected to take part in upcoming operations targeting areas where Al-Shabaab continues to operate, adding that the ongoing training was intended to enhance the military’s operational effectiveness.

The visit comes as Somali authorities continue preparations for a renewed military campaign against Al-Shabaab, which has waged an insurgency in the Horn of Africa nation for more than 15 years.

Although government forces, supported by local militias and international partners, have recaptured a number of towns since major offensives began in 2022, Al-Shabaab continues to carry out attacks across central and southern Somalia and retains influence in parts of the countryside.

Improving troop readiness and coordination is seen as an essential move to sustaining pressure on the group and securing territory recovered during previous operations.