Somalia’s National Army wages ‘Total War’against Al-Shabab. Mogadishu, Somalia — Somalia’s National Army (SNA) is intensifying its efforts against the Islamist militant group Al-Shabab, declaring a “total war “to dismantle the group’s networks and finances. This strategy, initiated under President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration since 2022, aims to target both the militants’frontline activities and their influence among ordinary Somalis.
Mogadishu’s defense against potential Al-Shabab attacks is a combination of military and civilian efforts. Checkpoints are manned by young men in plain clothes and machine gunners in pick-up trucks, while Abdikani Ali Mohamed, a teenage-looking colonel, has emerged as a key figure in the SNA’s efforts. Mohamed’s authority has grown in Mogadishu as the government seeks to dismantle Al-Shabab networks.
The SNA’s operations are not limited to Mogadishu; they extend to various regions, including Sabiid Canole and Bariire, where recent victories have been achieved. Over 100 militants have been killed in these operations, including the recapture of villages in the central Hiran region, according to official statements.
The strategy involves intelligence — led operations, with the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) playing a central role.
This approach is intended to address the evolving tactics of Al — Shabab, which have presented new challenges. Security officials attribute the rarity of major attacks in Mogadishu to these efforts.
Despite the military pressure, including occasional US airstrikes, Al — Shabab has retreated to areas of southern and central Somalia that suit its guerrilla tactics.
In the Lower Shabelle region, confrontations between government troops and the militants have become more frequent in recent months.
However, the control of towns like Bariire has shifted multiple times in the past year, reflecting the complexity of the conflict.
The impact of the conflict on civilian populations is significant.
Residents like Daynab Mukhtar Aden, a 65-year-old mother of six, have been forced to flee their homes due to the violence. Her return to Bariire, following the government’s recapture of the city, was made with the hope that the government would help rebuild and ensure their safety.
Lt.
Col. Abdirahim Mohammed Munye of the Somali military emphasizes the importance of reclaiming towns like Bariire for the security of Mogadishu.
He cited successive victories against Al — Shabab in Bariire and the nearby areas of Sabid-Anole and Awdheegle, hoping to gain the upper hand with Allah’s help.
The situation in Mogadishu, a city of just under 3 million people, shows signs of improvement. Construction sites are active, cafes and ice cream parlors are opening, and residents are beginning to see a return to normalcy.
However, the threat of Al — Shabab remains, and the security presence continues to be a source of reassurance for many.
Further details are expected as the SNA continues its operations against Al — Shabab.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
