Facebook Twitter Instagram Somali Magazine - People's Magazine
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud visited Adale town on Thursday to meet with local leaders, security officials, and community members. The main focus of the meeting was to discuss the fight against the militant group Al-Shabaab and how to bring stability to the region.
The meeting was held during an iftar dinner, which is the evening meal Muslims eat to break their fast during Ramadan. The event brought together politicians, officials from Hirshabelle State, local defense forces, and religious scholars. These groups shared their thoughts and suggestions on how to defeat Al-Shabaab and improve national security.
President Mohamud praised the people of Hirshabelle for their bravery in resisting Al-Shabaab. He acknowledged the sacrifices they have made in fighting against the militants who continue to threaten Somalia’s peace and security.
“The people of Hirshabelle have shown great courage by risking their lives to fight terrorists who want to destroy our country,” President Mohamud said. He stressed that for Somalia to have lasting peace, there must be unity among communities, security forces, and political leaders.
He also assured the people that his government is committed to supporting regional security efforts and rebuilding areas that have been freed from Al-Shabaab’s control.
This visit is part of a larger tour by the president, where he is traveling to the frontlines of the fight against Al-Shabaab. He is meeting with soldiers, assessing military progress, and encouraging local communities to be involved in the fight against terrorism.
In recent months, the Somali government has increased military operations in Middle Shabelle and other regions. The goal is to permanently weaken Al-Shabaab’s control over rural communities and bring peace and stability to the country.
During the meeting, local leaders and security officials discussed the challenges they face in fighting Al-Shabaab. They pointed out the need for better equipment, more resources, and stronger coordination between the national government and regional forces. Some community members also expressed concerns about the ongoing violence and how it has affected their daily lives.
President Mohamud listened carefully to their concerns and promised that his government would work closely with regional leaders to improve security. He emphasized that defeating Al-Shabaab requires not only military action but also social and economic development. He encouraged young people to resist being recruited by terrorist groups and instead focus on education and rebuilding their communities.
The Somali government has been working hard to push Al-Shabaab out of its strongholds. The military, with support from local militias and international partners, has launched major offensives in several regions. These operations have successfully freed many towns and villages from Al-Shabaab’s control, but the fight is far from over. The group still carries out attacks, targeting civilians, government officials, and security forces.
One of the key topics discussed during the meeting was the role of local communities in maintaining security after military victories. President Mohamud stressed that once an area is liberated, the local people must play an active role in keeping the peace. He urged religious leaders to spread messages of peace and unity, and he called on elders to help guide young people away from extremism.
The president also highlighted the importance of rebuilding infrastructure in liberated areas. Many towns that were previously under Al-Shabaab’s control lack basic services such as schools, hospitals, and clean water. He assured the people that his government, along with international partners, is working on reconstruction projects to improve living conditions.
In addition to security efforts, President Mohamud spoke about the need for political unity. He encouraged collaboration between the federal government and regional states, stressing that Somalia can only move forward if its leaders work together. He called on politicians to put aside their differences and focus on the greater goal of achieving peace and stability.
At the end of the meeting, the president expressed his gratitude to the people of Adale for their hospitality and courage. He reassured them that his government is committed to standing by them in the fight against terrorism and in rebuilding their communities.
His visit to Adale is just one part of a broader effort to strengthen the country’s security and governance. By engaging with local communities and listening to their concerns, the Somali government hopes to create lasting solutions to the challenges of terrorism and instability.
With continued military operations and strong community involvement, Somalia aims to defeat Al-Shabaab and move towards a future of peace and development. The president’s message was clear: unity, resilience, and cooperation are key to overcoming the threats facing the nation.