Federal, South West Leaders Align On Security and Stabilisation Drive

GOOBJOOG NEWS | BAIDOA: Federal government of Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Southwest State interim leader Jibril Abdirashid Haji Abdi have agreed on a set of coordinated measures to strengthen security, accelerate stabilisation efforts and improve drought response following a high-level meeting in Baidoa.

The meeting also brought together regional ministers and senior commanders of the Somali National Armed Forces and resulted in plans to intensify operations against Al-Shabaab, while enhancing coordination between federal and regional institutions.

The two sides also agreed to prioritize service delivery, strengthen administrative structures and support local economic infrastructure as part of broader efforts to stabilize the region.

Authorities said improving cooperation between security agencies and civilian institutions would be key to sustaining recent gains and addressing humanitarian pressures linked to ongoing drought conditions.

The meeting comes amid heightened activity in South West State, where federal forces have increased their presence following recent political changes and efforts to assert control in key areas.

Baidoa remains a strategic hub in Somalia’s counter-insurgency campaign, particularly along supply routes linking it to Mogadishu, while the region continues to face overlapping challenges from insecurity, political tensions and climate-related shocks.

Analysts say closer coordination between Mogadishu and regional authorities will be critical as Somalia pushes ahead with planned electoral reforms and expanded military operations.