Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud visited Cadale to meet with military leaders combating Al-Shabaab, emphasizing the need to secure liberated areas amid a rise in attacks. His visit is part of ongoing strategies to address the increasing threat from the militant group, following a failed assassination attempt and escalated assaults near Mogadishu.
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud visited Cadale today, following meetings in Mogadishu with a UAE delegation headed by Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the UAE. His visit aims to discuss strategies with military commanders fighting Al-Shabaab, particularly focusing on securing areas previously liberated from the militant group.
This visit follows a recent assassination attempt during a bombing in Ceel-Gaabta and underscores President Mohamud’s commitment to counter-terrorism. He had previously visited frontlines in Aadan Yabaal and Moqokori, which are critical to the conflict against Al-Shabaab.
In recent weeks, Al-Shabaab has escalated their attacks around Mogadishu, notably assaulting nearby locations such as Sabiid and Caanoole, which are 40 kilometers from the capital. These actions aim to undermine Somali government forces and re-establish their presence in vital areas.
Additionally, Al-Shabaab has been targeting government and military personnel, resulting in the deaths of several senior officers. On Wednesday, the group also launched a mortar attack on Mogadishu’s airport, specifically aiming at the Halane base, housing African Union forces and diplomatic entities.
President Mohamud’s visit to Cadale highlights the Somali government’s ongoing commitment to combatting Al-Shabaab amidst rising attacks. With recent escalations in violence, securing liberated regions and maintaining the resilience of government forces are crucial to stabilizing the country. Enhanced military cooperation and international support are essential in these efforts.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
