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Hassan Sheikh Mohamud meets military commanders in Moqokori, pledges continued support for troops battling militants
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud visited the frontline town of Moqokori in the Hiiraan region to meet military commanders and leaders from the Hirshabelle state. His visit aimed to assess the ongoing fight against Al-Shabaab militants and boost the morale of government forces.
President Mohamud spent the night in Moqokori and held discussions with senior officers from the Somali National Army (SNA) and the Hirshabelle Vice President. They talked about the progress made in recent battles, the challenges soldiers face, and strategies to keep pushing forward. Officials briefed him on the counterterrorism efforts and stressed how important his visit was for motivating the troops.
During his speech to the soldiers and allied local militias, known as the Ma’awisley, the president praised their bravery and dedication in fighting Al-Shabaab. He promised that his government would continue supporting them with military resources and other necessary aid. His message was clear: the fight against Al-Shabaab must continue until the group is completely defeated.
Al-Shabaab has recently increased attacks in the Hiiraan region, briefly taking back areas that government forces and local fighters had previously secured. The militant group has been targeting military bases in an effort to regain lost ground. In response, the Somali government has stepped up its offensive, launching more attacks to push the militants further into hiding.
A statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that Al-Shabaab has suffered heavy losses in recent battles. As a result, the group has turned to desperate tactics, including an attempt to attack the president’s convoy in Mogadishu. However, officials described the attack as a “cowardly act of desperation.” The attack failed, and the president arrived safely in Moqokori as planned. The explosion did cause civilian casualties, but the government has not yet released an official number.
President Mohamud’s visit highlights his administration’s commitment to leading the fight against Al-Shabaab firsthand. By being present on the battlefield, he is showing soldiers and local leaders that he stands with them. His presence is also helping to strengthen cooperation between the federal government and regional leaders, ensuring that everyone is working together in the fight against terrorism.
The Somali National Army and its allies remain focused on eliminating Al-Shabaab from key areas. The military has made significant progress, but the battle is far from over. Government forces still face strong resistance as they advance into militant-held areas. Officials emphasize that securing and stabilizing liberated regions is just as important as winning battles.
As part of his visit, President Mohamud is holding more meetings with military leaders to assess the next steps in the fight against Al-Shabaab. His administration is dedicated to improving security and ensuring that Somali forces have what they need to keep pushing forward. The president has also called on regional and international partners to support Somalia’s security efforts, recognizing that the fight against terrorism requires global cooperation.
Beyond military action, the government is also working on long-term solutions to prevent extremism from growing again. Officials believe that real peace will only come when people in liberated areas have better opportunities and services. That’s why the government is focused on rebuilding infrastructure, providing essential services, and strengthening governance in areas freed from Al-Shabaab control.
As President Mohamud continues his visit to the frontline, his direct engagement with soldiers and leaders shows his commitment to defeating terrorism and bringing lasting peace to Somalia. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining how well the military campaign progresses and whether the government can maintain its momentum in the fight against Al-Shabaab.