MOGADISHU – The Minister of Defence of the Federal Government of Somalia, Ambassador Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, and the Commander of the Somali National Army (SNA), Major General Ibrahim Mohamed Mahmoud, have conducted an inspection visit to military units stationed in the Cadale district, as part of ongoing efforts to accelerate operations against Al-Shabaab in the Middle Shabelle and Galgadud regions.
The visit comes as part of a broader tour of the frontlines aimed at assessing the operational readiness of troops, boosting morale, and reinforcing the government’s commitment to eliminating militant strongholds. Minister Fiqi praised the forces for their recent successes and urged them to maintain the momentum of their offensives against Al-Shabaab.
The inspection follows a series of successful airstrikes and ground operations in the Middle Shabelle region, which have resulted in the deaths of nearly 30 militants and the destruction of training camps, logistics hubs, and weapons stockpiles. The operations, carried out in coordination with international partners, targeted the villages of Gayfo, Ruun Idiris, and Ali Gaduud, areas identified as key operational bases for the militant group.
Frontline Assessment and Troop Morale
During the visit, Minister Fiqi and General Mahmoud met with frontline commanders and troops to assess the progress of ongoing counter-terrorism operations. The Defence Minister commended the soldiers for their courage and discipline, crediting them for significant territorial gains made against extremist groups in recent months.
According to data presented to parliament, Somali forces have carried out 220 precision airstrikes since February, eliminating 868 militants, including 52 senior operatives from both Al-Shabaab and Daesh factions. These strikes have disrupted enemy command structures and weakened their capacity to carry out large-scale attacks.
General Mahmoud, who was appointed as SNA Commander in January 2026, has been at the forefront of efforts to professionalise the armed forces and intensify military campaigns against insurgents. He has previously chaired high-level meetings to accelerate military operations and align transition timelines with international partners.
Strategic Importance of Cadale and Middle Shabelle
The Cadale district, located in the Middle Shabelle region, has been a focal point of military operations due to its strategic location and the presence of militant networks. The SNA has initiated a fresh offensive in Middle Shabelle, advancing toward areas near Xawaadley in what officials describe as one of the region’s most demanding operations in recent months.
The army chief has previously promoted frontline troops for their role in reopening the vital Mogadishu-Baidoa road, which had been under an Al-Shabaab blockade since 2009. The successful operation to secure the route has improved connectivity and facilitated the movement of humanitarian and commercial goods.
Government Commitment to Counter-Terrorism
Minister Fiqi reiterated the Federal Government’s determination to liberate all areas still under militant control. He stressed that the fight against Al-Shabaab would continue until lasting peace and security are achieved across the country.
The Defence Minister has previously detailed the elimination of senior Al-Shabaab commanders, including Engineer Abdullahi Osman Mohamed Abuukar, the group’s chief explosives specialist, who was killed in an operation in the Jilib district of Middle Juba.
The inspection visit to Cadale follows similar engagements in Ceeldheer, where Minister Fiqi and General Mahmoud held community meetings to discuss security, development, and electoral participation. The federal government has consistently emphasised the importance of community cooperation in securing liberated areas and preventing the resurgence of militant activity.
Way Forward
The senior defence officials’ visit to Cadale underscores the federal government’s commitment to intensifying military operations and improving the conditions of troops engaged in counter-insurgency efforts. As the SNA continues its campaign against Al-Shabaab, sustained coordination between federal and regional forces will be crucial to securing lasting peace and stability in the Middle Shabelle region and beyond.
Recommended Reading On ftlsomalia.com:
- Somali Forces Kill Nearly 30 Al-Shabaab Militants in Middle Shabelle Airstrikes
- Somali Defense Leaders Brief Upper House on Security Gains and Military Reforms
- Defense Minister Details Al-Shabaab Commanders Killed by National Army
- Army Commander Promotes Troops Following Mogadishu-Baidoa Road Reopening
- SNA Intensifies Assault on Al-Shabaab in Middle Shabelle
