Somali Army Commander Sees Gains in Fight Against Al-Shabaab

JOWHAR, Somalia - The ground commander of the Somali National Army (SNA), Major General Sahal Abdullahi Omar, has expressed optimism that the forces would defeat the Al-Shabaab, noting the progress made in the recent months in central and southern regions.

At Galmudug state, where he visited the 21st Division, Maj. General Abdullahi Omar reinforced the mission readiness of the troops and operational preparedness. He was received by Col. Mohamed Dhagaweyne, the commander of the unit.

According to him, the 21st Division has made remarkable progress in the fight against Al-Shabaab, noting that the militants have been dislodged from strategic towns, leading to massive gains in recent weeks.

“Our forces are not only warriors on the battlefield, they are the very guardians of our republic,” he said. “Their courage and discipline are the reason Somalia continues to reclaim its land, its dignity, and its future.”

During the trip, he said, the national army is a unifying force, noting that the force has managed to protect Somalia’s territorial integrity and restore peace in several frontlines. The al-Shabaab militants have significantly lost ground in recent months.

“Every inch of ground retaken from the Al-Shabaab militants is a step toward peace, and every soldier standing firm is a testament to our resilience as a people,” he added.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has invested in various frontlines, noting that the extremist groups would be defeated from the country shortly. In northern Somalia, the regional forces have managed to defeat ISIS militants.

GAROWE ONLINE