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In a significant move aimed at revitalizing its fight against terrorism, the Somali government announced on Thursday that it has appointed a new leader for its national army. During a Cabinet meeting in Mogadishu led by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, the government confirmed that Major Gen. Odawaa Yusuf Rageh has been removed from his post. Taking his place is Brig. Gen. Ibrahim Mohamed Mohamud, who now steps into the role of Chief of the Somali National Army at a pivotal moment for the country’s security.
This leadership shuffle is far from a routine administrative change. According to official statements, it is a strategic decision intended to modernize the military and sharpen the effectiveness of its command structure. The Somali government is currently preparing to launch a fresh, intensified phase of military operations targeting al-Shabab insurgents in the central and southern regions of the country. By bringing in Brig. Gen. Mohamud, the administration hopes to introduce new tactical directions and logistical improvements that will keep the military’s momentum going on the battlefield.
The timing of this appointment is critical. The Somali National Army is already locked in high-intensity battles across Middle Shabelle and Lower Juba—areas that have served as strongholds for al-Shabab for many years. While these figures are difficult to verify independently, Somali officials report that recent operations, supported by international allies, have successfully eliminated over 300 militants. The government’s goal is to transition from these successful strikes into a “decisive stage” of the campaign that permanently weakens the group’s territorial hold and financial influence.
The outgoing chief, Major Gen. Rageh, had only been reappointed to the position in November 2024. His brief tenure was defined by an expansion of the offensive against the al-Qaida-linked group. However, the government believes that the current stage of the conflict requires a renewed focus on professionalizing the military ranks and streamlining how orders are carried out on the ground. The new chief, Brig. Gen. Mohamud, has been specifically tasked with ensuring troops are better prepared and more coordinated as they push into enemy-held territory.
Despite the progress made by Somali forces and their international partners, the challenge remains immense. Al-Shabab has proven to be a resilient adversary, maintaining the capability to launch complex attacks and deadly bombings against civilians, government officials, and international aid workers. While the military has successfully regained significant territory in recent months, the threat of guerrilla-style violence persists.
Ultimately, this change in military leadership is part of Somalia’s broader, long-term strategy to achieve security self-reliance. By shaking up the top brass, the federal government is signaling its commitment to maintaining constant pressure on the insurgency. The hope is that a fresh perspective at the top of the Somali National Army will help consolidate the gains made so far and finally bring a sense of lasting stability to the regions that have suffered most under insurgent control.