President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of the Federal Republic of Somalia, currently stationed at the frontlines of the ongoing fight against Al-Shabaab, spent the night in the town of Moqokori. During his visit, he held an important meeting with the leadership of Hirshabelle and senior military officers leading the operations to liberate the country from militant control.
According to a statement released by Villa Somalia, the President engaged in a detailed discussion with Hirshabelle’s Vice President and the commanders of the frontline forces. The meeting focused on the progress of military operations, the challenges faced, and the morale of Somali troops.
President Hassan Sheikh expressed his commitment to staying closely involved in the fight, ensuring that both the successes and the needs of the Somali military are understood firsthand.
The President praised the determination and resilience shown by the Somali forces, especially as they faced intense assaults by the Al-Shabaab militant group targeting military bases in the Hirshabelle region.
Recently, Al-Shabaab has increased pressure on these areas, even taking control of regions previously held by government and local militia forces, known as Maawiisley.
The visit comes as the Somali National Army (SNA) intensifies counterterrorism operations, targeting Al-Shabaab’s rural hideouts in Middle Shabelle and other regions. According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the militants have suffered significant battlefield losses, forcing them to resort to desperate tactics, including an attempted attack on the president’s convoy in Mogadishu.
The attack, described as a “cowardly act of desperation” by officials, was thwarted, and the president arrived safely in Moqokori as planned. The explosion resulted in civilian casualties, though the government has yet to release an official toll.
President Mohamud is expected to continue his stay in the region, coordinating with military leaders on upcoming operations aimed at reclaiming Al-Shabaab-controlled areas and securing strategic positions.
