Somali Minister Touts Gains Against Al-Shabaab Despite Recent Setback

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Despite the recent blows in central regions against Al-Shabaab militants, Somalia’s Foreign Affairs minister, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, says the Somali National Army (SNA) has made significant gains against the group on the frontlines.

Last week, the Somali National Army retreated from Adan Yabaal town following increased Al-Shabaab activities, raising concerns about the military's ability and capability to defend the country from external attacks, given its internal inefficiencies.

But Fiqi said the group has been weakened over the last two years, following offensives carried out on different frontlines. The minister says the group’s financial and ideological networks have been disrupted.

He adds that the Somali National Army has managed to defend the country's territorial integrity and sovereignty, noting that its resilience has been unwavering and consistent over the last 24 months.

To demonstrate solidarity, the Ministry donated a truckload of dry food supplies to support troops stationed on the frontlines. Several soldiers are still on various frontlines fighting the militants.

“It is impossible for terrorist groups like Al-Shabaab to control Somalia. Our people have shown extraordinary courage in rejecting extremism and standing firm for justice,” the minister said, calling on political leaders and the broader public to continue backing the military’s efforts.

Several soldiers have been killed on the battlefield, but Fiqi maintains the war shall be won in honour of those who have sacrificed their lives. Those wounded are being treated in some facilities across the country.

All Somalis, he said, should work closely with the military as they pursue the militants across several frontlines. The government is also targeting the closure of financial networks associated with the militants.

“Our armed forces, whether defending strategic positions or leading liberation operations, are securing the future of this country,” he added.

The government of Somalia, with the help of the US Africa Command and the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), has managed to secure supply routes and strategic towns across the country, significantly reducing the al-Shabaab threat.

GAROWE ONLINE