(27-05-23) MOGADISHU – The Commander of the Somali National Armed Forces, Major General Odowaa Yusuf Rage, alongside a delegation, embarked on an inspection tour of recently liberated districts in the Galgaduud region on Saturday afternoon.
The delegation, including General Mohamed Tahliil Bihi, the Commander of the Land Forces, Colonel John Bishop, the Commander of the Special Operations Forces of the United States, and other senior officers, visited the districts of Galcad and Adan-Yabaal. These districts, once under the firm grip of Al-Shabaab, have now been liberated, marking significant strides in the fight against terrorism in the region.
Major General Rage and his party were also accompanied by officers from the US Africa Command, illustrating the collaborative efforts between the two countries in their bid to eradicate Al-Shabaab.
The purpose of their trip relates to the organization and preparation of an impending operation aimed at retaking the city of Elbur. This falls in line with the Somali government’s announced second phase in its fight against Al-Shabaab, code-named ‘Black Lion’. This operation is set to be a major advancement in the nation’s fight against terrorism.
While in Galcad and Adan-Yabaal, the delegation made a thorough inspection of the positions held by the country’s armed forces. They also took time to listen to detailed reports from the frontline officers, whose valorous efforts have been instrumental in reclaiming these areas from Al-Shabaab.
This visit serves as an affirmation of the government’s commitment to restoring peace and stability to regions formerly controlled by Al-Shabaab. It also underscores the remarkable bravery and self-sacrifice of the armed forces in their determination to reclaim and protect the sovereignty of Somalia.