Somalia: Jubaland to expedite anti-militant offensive

KISMAYO, Somalia, January 2, 2016 (Garowe Online)-Jubaland President Sheikh Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Madobe) has vowed more anti Al Shabaab operations in the new year, 2016 in briefing to reporters in the southern port city of Kismayo on Saturday, Garowe Online reports.

Madobe said that his trip to Kenya and Ethiopia focused on security and imminent offensives against Al Shabaab militants in areas lying along Jubba River.

“Jubba River operation that aims at flushing Al Shabaab militants out of Jubba region will kick off soon,” he told media members, adding that African Union peacekeepers will prop up Jubaland forces in the liberation push.

Jubaland leader’s remarks coincide with the arrival of some 250 Ethiopian peacekeepers poised to replace Sierra Leonean troops in Kismayo.

--Kismayo Forum

Speaking about the upcoming National Consultative Conference, he seemed optimistic of better outcome.

On December 17, Somali political leaders decided on improved system that encompasses clans and regions; however its framework remains sketchy.

Jubaland will host the conference which is a follow-up for Mogadishu Consultative Forum on January 10.

--Defence Minister meets generals

Meanwhile, Somali Defence Minister Gen. Abdulkadir Sheikh Ali Diini has received top generals including Chief of Defence Mohamed Adan Ahmed and Ethiopian AMISOM commander Gen.Zeyinu Mohammedesha at his office.

The generals briefed Diini on the latest security developments and military plans for the New Year, 2016.

The Defence Minister thanked African brothers for their contribution towards stable Somalia, hoping that 2016 will see Al Shabaab grip wane across Somalia.

AMISOM has partially stalled 2015 operations after considerable gains in its half, mainly in central and southern Somalia.

GAROWE ONLINE