Mogadishu — The United States has delivered military equipment, including heavy weaponry, to the Somali National Army in the Middle Shabelle region, Somali authorities said on Tuesday.
According to Somalia’s Ministry of Defence, U.S. forces traveled to Middle Shabelle on February 3 to hand over the equipment as part of ongoing bilateral security cooperation aimed at supporting Somalia’s fight against militant groups threatening national and regional stability. Officials did not disclose the quantity or value of the weapons delivered.
“The delivery demonstrates the United States Government’s continuous support for Somalia and the bilateral security cooperation aimed at strengthening efforts to eradicate terrorist groups that threaten regional stability and the safety of Somali citizens,” the ministry said in a statement. It added that Somali forces, working with international partners, would continue operations to deny militants any safe haven.
The Ministry of Defence and the command of the Somali National Armed Forces reiterated their commitment to sustained counter-terrorism operations. “We remain committed to eliminating the remnants of terrorism, and counter-terrorism operations will persist until lasting peace and stability are secured across the country,” the statement said.
The United States has long provided security assistance to Somalia, including training, equipment and operational support. U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) supports Somali forces, including through air operations against militants.
Somalia has been battling the Islamist group Al-Shabaab for more than a decade, with government forces intensifying operations in regions such as Middle Shabelle as part of a broader campaign to restore security and extend state authority.
