Somali Defence Minister, AUSSOM leadership discuss security cooperation and Bariire liberation.

The Minister of Defence, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, today hosted senior officials from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) to discuss enhancing cooperation in the fight against Al-Shabaab and implementing the national security transition plan.

The meeting, held at the Ministry of Defence headquarters, was attended by the Chief of the Somali National Army (SNA), Major General Odowa Yusuf Rage, the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia and Head of AUSSOM, Ambassador El Hadji Ibrahima Diene, his Deputy, Mr. Mouktar Ousman Karie, and the AUSSOM Force Commander, General Sam Kavuma.

Talks centred on “strengthening coordination between the Ministry and AUSSOM, advancing joint operations, and accelerating the ongoing offensive against Al-Shabaab militants across the country.

The leaders also reviewed progress on the security transition plan, which aims to gradually transfer security responsibilities from AUSSOM to Somali forces.”

Minister Fiqi commended AUSSOM for its crucial support in Somalia’s stabilisation and counter-terrorism efforts, particularly in Sector One. He highlighted the mission’s role in the recent liberation of Bariire town in Lower Shabelle region — a strategic victory in the fight against the insurgents.

The discussions reaffirmed the commitment of both parties to intensify joint military efforts, bolster security in newly liberated areas, and pave the way for sustainable peace and governance in Somalia.

Mustaqbal