Mogadishu, Tuesday October 17,2023 – In a momentous occasion, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who is also the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, received a group of Somali troops at the Somali National Army’s Air Force Base in Mogadishu. These soldiers had recently completed a military training in Eritrea and are set to join ongoing operations aimed at eradicating security threats, notably from the Al-Shabaab militant group.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who had previously visited Eritrea and praised the collaboration between the two nations, expressed his utmost confidence in the capabilities of these troops. He emphasized that their commitment and dedication would be instrumental in the fight against Al-Shabaab.
Addressing the troops, President Mohamud stated, “We have kept our promise to you and your parents. Now you have to keep yours and fight against Al-Shabaab. I trust that you will do so, God willing.”
The President commended the soldiers for their unwavering dedication, some of whom had spent years abroad, far from their families and homeland. He recognized the sacrifices made by these troops and the concerns of their parents, many of whom had anxiously awaited their return for an extended period.
In addition to land forces, the troops included air and sea units, showcasing the comprehensive training and preparedness to tackle a variety of security challenges.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s visit to the event is said to be a demonstration of his commitment to the national security of Somalia but also signified the unity and determination of the Somali people to eradicate the Al-Shabaab threat.
After welcoming the troops, President Mohamud granted them a brief leave to reunite with their families, who had been waiting anxiously for their return. However, their respite will be short-lived as they will soon embark on critical operations aimed at eliminating the menace of Al-Shabaab from their homeland.
This event marks a significant step forward in the ongoing efforts to strengthen and reform the Somali Armed Forces, further bolstering the nation’s security.
