U.S. Cuts Funds for Somalia’s Elite Danab Forces

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The Department of Defence has significantly cut the budget for the Danab Special Forces, which could negatively impact the fight against Al-Shabaab militants in Somalia, given that Washington contributes to all funding directed to the group.

The US Africa Command is directly responsible for training and equipping the Somali National Army (SNA) elite forces, dubbed Danab. The contingent has been critical to the overall strategy in the fight against Al-Shabaab militants.

Egeh Bihi, Somalia’s minister for finance, said the US has reduced funding for the elite troops. He made the remarks in parliament on Wednesday, warned that this could worsen Somalia’s economic woes, and stressed the need for alternative support to maintain security and counterterrorism.

For the longest time, Danab Special Forces have participated in sophisticated operations against the Al-Shabaab, with minimal input from the US Africa Command, which is responsible for most aerial bombardments within the country.

Interestingly, the budget cuts, which are probably authorized by President Donald Trump who is keen to reduce spending on foreign soil, come after the US embassy in Mogadishu issued terror alerts, warning of the possibility of a major attack in Somalia.

The U.S. Department of State level four travel advisory (“do not travel”) for Somalia remains in effect due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health issues, kidnapping, and piracy, the embassy said in a statement.

"The U.S. Embassy in Somalia reminds U.S. citizens that terrorists continue to plot kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks in Somalia. They may conduct attacks with little or no warning, targeting airports and seaports, checkpoints, government buildings, hotels, restaurants, shopping areas, and other areas where large crowds gather and Westerners frequent, as well as government, military, and Western convoys," read the statement.

"Methods of attack include but are not limited to, car bombs, suicide bombers, individual attackers, and mortar fire. The U.S. government has extremely limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Somalia due to the lack of a permanent consular presence in Somalia."

The US Africa Command has also been critical in the fight against ISIS militants in Puntland state, with the participation in conducting airstrikes within Cal-Miskaad mountains making it easier for the Puntland Counter-Terrorism forces to effectively drive out the fighters from caves.

"Our goal is to eliminate any terrorist group operating or maintaining bases in Puntland," said President Said Abdullahi Deni as the war on ISIS makes gains in Calmiskaad mountains. The support by Americans is described as 'important and strategic' by security analysts.

GAROWE ONLINE