Defence Minister Fiqi Visits Frontline Eldheer as Government Reviews Military Campaign

GOOBJOOG NEWS | ELDHEER: Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi has visited the strategic frontline town of Eldheer in the central Galgaduud region, where he met military commanders and soldiers in a show of support for troops engaged in the government’s campaign against the armed group Al-Shabaab.

Accompanied by the Commander of the Somali National Army, Maj. Gen. Ibrahim Mohamed Mahmoud, the minister toured military positions and received updates on the security situation and the progress of operations in and around Eldheer, according to the Ministry of Defence.

The visit was aimed at assessing conditions on the ground, reviewing the effectiveness of ongoing operations and identifying the support needed by troops stationed in the area.

Senior military officers briefed the delegation on recent developments, operational challenges and the resources required to sustain security gains in central Somalia.

Addressing soldiers during the visit, Mr Fiqi commended their efforts and urged them to remain focused on protecting communities and maintaining pressure on Al-Shabaab. The army chief echoed the message, telling troops that the government remained committed to supporting forces deployed on the front lines.

Although the ministry did not announce any new military operations, the visit reflects the government’s continued focus on maintaining momentum in areas recovered from Al-Shabaab and ensuring frontline commanders remain closely engaged with political and military leaders.

Eldheer has been one of the government’s most important military strongholds since it was recaptured from Al-Shabaab in 2023. Its location makes it a key staging point for operations across Galgaduud and neighbouring regions, where security forces continue efforts to prevent the group from re-establishing its presence.

The minister’s trip comes as Somalia reviews its security strategy following months of intensified fighting in parts of central and southern Somalia. While government forces have reclaimed several towns over recent years, Al-Shabaab has continued to carry out deadly attacks and launch counteroffensives, highlighting the challenges of holding territory after military gains.

Visits by senior government and military leaders to frontline areas are intended not only to boost troop morale but also to improve coordination, assess operational needs and ensure forces have the support required to sustain long-term security operations.