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Lt. Gen. Sam Kavuma, the commander of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), visited the town of Mubarak in the Lower Shabelle region on Friday to review the situation on the ground after security forces successfully pushed al-Shabab fighters out of the area. The visit followed a joint military operation carried out by Somali government troops and African Union forces that resulted in the capture of the town and nearby locations previously controlled by the militant group.
During the visit, Kavuma was accompanied by senior commanders from the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF). Together, they inspected several security positions and met with soldiers who took part in the offensive that secured Mubarak and the nearby area of Daarusalaam. The purpose of the visit was to assess the readiness of the troops, review their deployment, and ensure that security gains made during the operation are maintained.
The military operation was conducted by Somali government forces with support from AUSSOM troops, including soldiers from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). The effort forms part of a wider campaign aimed at weakening al-Shabab’s presence in southern Somalia and dismantling militant bases located in areas south of Mogadishu.
Speaking to troops during the visit, Kavuma praised the joint forces for their determination and teamwork. He said the success of the operation was made possible through careful planning and strong coordination between Somali and African Union forces. According to him, the bravery and dedication shown by the soldiers on the ground played a major role in pushing militants out of their positions.
Kavuma also expressed gratitude to the leadership of AUSSOM, the UPDF units involved in the mission, Somali soldiers, and international partners who continue to support Somalia’s security efforts. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by the troops and emphasized the importance of continued cooperation in strengthening stability in the country.
Brig. Gen. Jackson Kayanja, the commander of Sector One, said that soldiers involved in the operation remain motivated and committed to their mission. He noted that the forces are now focused on securing the areas they have captured and preventing al-Shabab fighters from regrouping or launching new attacks.
Col. Owiny Akena, the commander of Battle Group 44 and the field commander who led the operation, confirmed that both Mubarak and Daarusalaam are now fully under the control of the joint forces. He explained that troops have established security positions in the area and are continuing to monitor the surroundings to ensure militants do not attempt to return.
On behalf of the Somali National Army, Lt. Sayidnuur Abdullah Warsame thanked AUSSOM forces for their continued support. He highlighted the importance of cooperation between Somali troops and African Union forces, saying the partnership has been essential in achieving success on the battlefield.
While in Mubarak, Kavuma also met with local residents to hear their concerns and discuss the next steps for stabilizing the area. He thanked the community for working closely with security forces and encouraged residents to support ongoing efforts to restore normal life. According to Kavuma, security alone is not enough; rebuilding communities and reviving local economic activity are equally important for lasting stability.
Residents who attended the meeting welcomed the presence of Somali and African Union forces in the town. Many said they hope the improved security situation will allow displaced families to return home and enable local businesses and markets to reopen after years of disruption caused by conflict.
Mubarak has long been considered a key location for al-Shabab operations in the Lower Shabelle region. The town has previously served as a transit route and staging point for militant activities, including attacks targeting Mogadishu and nearby districts. Because of its strategic importance, its capture is seen as a significant step in ongoing efforts to weaken the group’s influence in southern Somalia.
Security officials believe that maintaining a strong presence in Mubarak and surrounding areas will help prevent militants from reestablishing themselves and will create an opportunity for the government to extend services and rebuild communities that have been affected by years of instability.