PM Barre Urges National Support for Somali Army on 65th Anniversary

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Federal Republic of Somalia Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has called on all Somalis to stand firmly behind the Somali National Army (SNA), praising its sacrifices and pivotal role in securing the country, as the nation marks the 65th anniversary of the Army’s founding.

In a message commemorating the occasion, Prime Minister Barre highlighted the government’s progress in building a capable and professional military under the “DanQaran” administration, attributing recent successes against Al-Shabaab to those investments.

“Our army is the backbone of our national defense and the hope for a secure Somalia. It is a national duty to support the brave men and women of the SNA who are risking their lives daily to protect our people and liberate our land from terror,” he said.

He paid tribute to the fallen soldiers and expressed gratitude to those still serving, emphasizing that a strong national army is essential for safeguarding Somalia’s sovereignty and securing lasting peace.

Echoing that message, SNA Chief Major General Odowaa Yusuf Rageh praised the Army’s enduring legacy and issued a similar call for unity.

“We are fighting an international terrorist threat. Every Somali has a role to play, standing with our forces, contributing to stability, and defending our national dignity,” he said.

The anniversary comes amid intensified military operations against al-Shabaab, with the SNA and allied local defense forces pushing to reclaim critical territory across southern and central regions.