Somalia Marks 65th Anniversary of Its Army, Reflects on Resilience and Challenges

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Exactly 65 years ago today, Somalia gave birth to a strong army with a revolutionary reputation, participating in several liberation wars across the continent as a founder member of the Organisation of the African Union now the African Union (AU).

At General Da'ud Military Academy, there lies the echoes of the legacy exhibited by gallant soldiers, whose resilience cannot be bypassed given their contributions to advancing the security and sovereignty of the country besides triumphs in foreign lands.

"For Somalia, April 12th holds a particularly profound significance, it marks the founding of the Somali National Army (SNA), an institution that has safeguarded the nation and contributed to regional security for 65 years," state media acknowledged.

Across the Horn of Africa, the Somali National Army was once a uniting factor, contributing to regional stability through border protection, peacekeeping missions and to some extent, maintaining law and order in the country.

Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre termed the national army as 'the backbone of our defence' while asking civilians to support the forces for effective protection from the al-Shabaab militants and other terror groups.

On his part, Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Odowaa Yusuf Rage lauded the courage of the army, saying “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."

From its early years, the army demonstrated a commitment to excellence, establishing diverse leadership divisions to oversee key military operations.

Over time, these divisions expanded to include financial management, logistics, training, firefighting, healthcare, communication, and security, among others. This structure enabled the SNA to carry out crucial missions with discipline and efficiency.

Throughout this journey, the national forces recorded victories given the effectiveness and modernization at that time, including the conquering of the Ogaden — even though they lost to Ethiopia, the army showed its might and preparedness.

Sadly, all these gains were wrecked in 1991 after the civil war disrupted its structure and operations. For the last three decades, the country has spent a treasure in enhancing the capabilities of the once strongest force in the African continent.

Despite the challenges, the past two decades have witnessed a determined resurgence of the SNA. Efforts to rebuild and revitalize military units have led to the successful regrouping of forces and the recruitment of young, skilled personnel committed to restoring peace and security.

"Today, the armed forces continue to play a vital role in countering threats, protecting citizens, and contributing to national development," state media observes in its tribute to the Somali National Army.

There is no doubt that strengthening of the national forces remains a priority thus the improved training and modernisation of the military by drawing inspiration from the most advanced nations, including the United States and Turkey.

In the last few years, the government of Somalia has signed defence pacts with the US, Turkey and many Arab nations — the US particularly trains and equips the Danab Special Forces while Turkey trains Gorgor troops who are critical in the fight against Al-Shabaab and ISIS militants.

"With determination and strategic support, the Somali National Army is poised to reclaim its full potential, ensuring national security and stability for future generations," observers say.

Besides the capability challenges, the Somali National Army is also facing threats of possible infiltration by militants, leading to exposure of state security. Recently, a senior commander Colonel Nur Farey was killed by a suspected Al-Shabaab operative who masqueraded as SNA official.

However, the country looks forward to a future where its military stands stronger, resilient, and ready to face new challenges with courage. There is hope that this once strong force will reinvent itself and vehemently protect the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

GAROWE ONLINE