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Somalia has graduated a new group of elite Gorgor Special Forces, marking the completion of an intensive military training program at the TURKSOM Military Training Academy in Mogadishu. The graduation comes at a critical time as the federal government prepares to step up military operations against the militant group al-Shabab in the country’s southern regions, where fighting has remained persistent and complex.
The ceremony brought together senior Somali and Turkish officials, highlighting the close security cooperation between the two countries. Addressing the newly trained soldiers, Defense Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi praised the Somali National Army’s leadership for its continued efforts to improve the professionalism, discipline, and overall effectiveness of the armed forces. He said the graduation reflected the government’s long-term commitment to building a strong national army capable of defending the country and protecting civilians.
Fiqi urged the graduates to take their responsibilities seriously, reminding them that they are expected to safeguard Somalia’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. He emphasized that elite forces such as Gorgor are expected to play a key role in counterterrorism operations and to serve as an example of discipline and dedication within the wider military. According to the defense minister, the success of Somalia’s security strategy depends not only on numbers, but also on the quality, training, and commitment of its soldiers.
During the event, the graduating troops showcased a range of skills acquired during their training, including weapons handling, battlefield tactics, and self-defense techniques. These demonstrations were meant to show the level of preparedness the soldiers have reached after months of structured and demanding instruction. Military officials said the displays reflected a high degree of readiness and coordination, which will be essential in upcoming operations.
Among those in attendance were Somali National Army Commander Major General Odowaa Yusuf Raage, Training and Doctrine Commander Colonel Ahmed Issa Ahmed, and TURKSOM Commander General Sebahattin Kalkan, alongside Türkiye’s ambassador to Somalia and the commanders of Somalia’s air and naval forces. Their presence underlined the importance of joint planning and cooperation in rebuilding Somalia’s security institutions.
TURKSOM, which is operated by Türkiye, has become one of the most important pillars of Somalia’s military training system. Since its establishment, the academy has trained thousands of Somali soldiers, contributing significantly to the gradual rebuilding of the national army after decades of conflict. The facility is part of Türkiye’s broader security partnership with Somalia, which includes training, equipment support, and institutional development.
The graduation of the new Gorgor units comes as Somali authorities prepare to expand military operations in Lower and Middle Shabelle. These regions remain key battlegrounds in the fight against al-Shabab, which has maintained influence in some rural areas despite sustained pressure from government forces and their allies. Officials believe that strengthening elite units is crucial to maintaining momentum, improving coordination on the ground, and reclaiming territory still under militant control.
Although al-Shabab has been weakened over the years, it continues to carry out deadly attacks, targeting both civilians and security forces. This ongoing threat has made readiness, discipline, and coordination top priorities for Somalia’s security planners. Government leaders say investments in training and professional development are essential if the country is to achieve lasting stability and reduce its reliance on external support.
As the newly graduated soldiers prepare for deployment, authorities have expressed confidence that well-trained and motivated forces like Gorgor will play a decisive role in shaping the next phase of Somalia’s fight against extremism. The government hopes that continued training, strong leadership, and international cooperation will help turn recent gains into long-term security for the Somali people.