AFRICOM Shares New Anti–Al-Shabaab Strategy with Somalia President Hassan Sheikh

MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met Wednesday in Mogadishu with the newly appointed commander of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), Gen. Dagvin R.M. Anderson, to discuss ongoing efforts to combat the al-Qaida-linked group al-Shabab.

During the meeting, Gen. Anderson outlined AFRICOM’s strategy to support Somalia in its fight against al-Shabab, reaffirming the United States’ commitment to bolstering the Somali National Army and enhancing regional stability.

According to the Somali presidency, the renewed U.S. support will include targeted airstrikes against militant positions, military training, intelligence sharing, and logistical support to strengthen the country’s security forces.

The two leaders also reviewed the broader security landscape in the Horn of Africa, addressing the threat posed by cross-border armed groups and emphasizing the need for stronger regional cooperation to counter growing instability.

President Mohamud expressed gratitude for AFRICOM’s continued engagement and highlighted his government’s commitment to international partnerships aimed at achieving lasting peace and stability in Somalia and the wider region.

Gen. Anderson’s visit to Somalia is part of a regional tour of African countries where U.S. forces are deployed, underscoring Washington’s strategic interest in supporting African partners in combating terrorism and promoting security.

GAROWE ONLINE