Somalia: Jubaland forces officially integrated into Nat’l Army

KISMAYO, Somalia Nov 16, 2014 (Garowe Online)-As Al Shabaab militants are intensifying their drive in the fertile hinterland along Jubba River, a 9-point agreement between Somalia’s Federal Government and Jubaland administration has signaled a new milestone in the fight against terror on Friday, Garowe Online reports.

Jubaland President Sheikh Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Madobe) witnessed the signing ceremony at Kismayo presidential palace, urging Mogadishu-based central government to implement and right away honor the strategic integration plan.

The agreement states that Jubaland forces will be considered as National army troops from the date on which the bilateral deal comes into effect, Federal government will provide the only credible fighting force in Jubaland with the much-needed military gears and trainings, the renovation of now defunct 43^rd and 60^th army bases in Jubaland and the provision of capacity building support to Jubaland police force.

The agreement came after Federal Government of Somalia’s Ministers for Interior, Finance and Defence paid a two day visit to the southern port city of Kismayo.

Jubaland gained recognition from Mogadishu-based central government in August 2013 following IGAD-brokered intense bilateral talks in Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa.

GAROWE ONLINE