The Somali army liberates strategic locations in Lower Shabelle from Al-Shabaab
In a significant development reflecting the escalating pace of military operations against extremist groups in the Horn of Africa, the Somali National Army, in a joint operation with the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), has regained full control of the strategic areas of Gandershe and Watanane in the Lower Shabelle region. This move culminates intensive military efforts aimed at clearing the southern and central regions of remnants of the al-Shabaab terrorist movement.
The Somali National News Agency quoted high-ranking military sources on Wednesday confirming that joint forces had successfully driven out terrorist elements from these sites, which had been used as launching pads for attacks and logistical storage. The sources indicated that the precise military operations in the Lower Shabelle region not only resulted in the recapture of territory but also significantly weakened the group's fighting capabilities and killed a number of its prominent field commanders, dealing a severe blow to the group's organizational structure in the region.
General context and strategic importance
This operation is particularly important given the geographical location of the Lower Shabelle region, which serves as the southern gateway to the capital, Mogadishu. Al-Shabaab has long sought to maintain its influence in this resource-rich agricultural region, using it as a source of funding for its operations by extorting money from farmers and traders, as well as exploiting coastal areas like Gandarshe for smuggling and logistical support.
These victories come within the context of the "total war" declared by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud against the movement since assuming power. This war relies on a multi-pronged strategy encompassing direct military action, cutting off funding sources, and ideological counter-offensive. Over the past few months, the Somali army, with the support of local clans and international partners, has succeeded in recapturing vast areas that had been under the movement's control for many years.
Expected impacts locally and regionally
Domestically, the liberation of these areas is expected to contribute to enhanced security and stability in the capital, Mogadishu, and its surroundings. Expelling the militants from Lower Shabelle will secure the main roads connecting the capital to the southern provinces, facilitating trade and the movement of citizens. Furthermore, the restoration of state control means the return of essential services and protection for the population from the oppressive rule of the illegitimate courts previously imposed by the movement.
Regionally, tightening the noose around al-Shabaab in its main strongholds serves the regional security interests of East African states, as it reduces the group's ability to plan cross-border operations or export extremism to neighboring countries. This military progress underscores the growing capacity of Somali security institutions to assume responsibility for the country's security, particularly with the ongoing arrangements for the withdrawal of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and the full handover of security responsibilities to national forces.
