Jubaland president honours U.S. forces for support in anti-Shabaab operations

KISMAYO, Somalia, July 8 – The president of Somalia’s Jubaland state, Ahmed Madobe, has paid tribute to U.S. forces operating under U.S. Africa Command [AFRICOM] during a visit to their base in southern Somalia, lauding their role in the fight against al-Shabaab and broader efforts to stabilise the region.

Madobe thanked the American troops for their continued support to the Somali people, particularly in the areas of military training, joint counterterrorism operations, and efforts targeting the al-Qaeda-linked group al-Shabaab.

He cited the impact of recent operations that have pushed the militants out of parts of Jubaland, describing the U.S. contribution as “critical” to those successes.

In recognition of their role, the Jubaland leader awarded U.S. personnel the Medal of Honor and presented them with Certificates of Appreciation, praising their bravery and long-standing cooperation with local forces.

The visit comes against the backdrop of heightened political tensions between Jubaland and the federal government in Mogadishu. In December 2024, federal troops were deployed to the Raskamboni area in Lower Jubaland in a failed attempt to remove Madobe from power.

The offensive ended in a major setback for Mogadishu, with federal forces suffering heavy losses and hundreds reportedly surrendering to Kenyan forces stationed near the border.

The incident further strained relations between the central government and Jubaland, but also underscored the importance of foreign security partnerships in the region’s volatile landscape.

Jubaland remains a key battleground in the ongoing conflict with al-Shabaab, as well as a focal point in Somalia’s complex federal politics.

GAROWE ONLINE