Somalia gets regional backing in Al-Shabaab war

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Regional powerhouses have supported Somalia's quest to eliminate Al-Shabaab militants with the country now preparing for the second phase which will target parts of Galmadug and HirShabelle where the militants are still dominant despite persistent operations to flush them from their hideouts.

Last week, East Africa and the Horn of Africa countries resolved to support the ongoing crackdown against Al-Shabaab even with the impending exit of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia [ATMIS] peacekeepers, who are directly associated with successes against Al-Shabaab.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud had rallied for regional support and he anticipates that by the end of this year, Al-Shabaab would have lost significant territories. Already, the country has started installing civilian administrations in areas where Al-Shabaab lost ground during the first phase.

“The problem of Burundi was solved by East Africa. So this problem, the way we discussed today, I am sure we can solve it,” said Museveni after the meeting.

The leaders appealed for increased financial support to ensure a proper transition. The country has struggled to finance internal operations against Al-Shabaab and in most cases, depends on the goodwill of the European Union and the United Nations for support of local soldiers.

“Still we are requesting and have requested your continued support until the end when Somalia has freed itself from the insecurity, which we all are definitely sure and committed to see happen,” stated President Mohamud.

Aden Duale, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Defence, cautioned that the Atmis drawdown should ensure a proportionate force balance for the maintenance of security not only for Somalia but the region. Mr. Duale has been pushing for the stabilization of Somalia.

“It is our responsibility, therefore, to ensure peace, security, and stability within our region in order to achieve the much-desired economic prosperity,” said Duale.

Somalia has been pushing for stability for three decades but the end of inter-clan fights was replaced by insurgency from Al-Shabaab militants. The region has been pushing for the stability of the Horn of Africa nation which is strategic in terms of importation due to its 3,333KM coastline.

GAROWE ONLINE