Somalia’s Minister of Defense, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, accompanied by Somali National Army (SNA) Commander Maj. Gen. Ibrahim Mohamed Mahmoud, visited the Qorilow Military Training School in the Middle Shabelle region as the federal government intensifies preparations for a new phase of military operations against Al-Shabaab.

During the visit, Fiqi praised the troops for their discipline, commitment, and readiness to defend the country, urging them to maintain rigorous training standards and strengthen their combat preparedness ahead of upcoming operations.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving the professionalism, capabilities, and operational effectiveness of the Somali National Army as part of broader efforts to enhance national security and stabilize the country.

“The Federal Government remains fully committed to strengthening the quality and capacity of the Somali National Army to ensure Somalia’s security and long-term stability,” the Defense Ministry quoted Fiqi as saying.

SNA Commander Maj. Gen. Ibrahim Mohamed Mahmoud encouraged the soldiers to maximize the training they are receiving, stressing the importance of vigilance, unity, discipline, and operational readiness.

He said the troops undergoing training at the Qorilow facility are expected to play a central role in upcoming offensives aimed at recapturing areas that remain under Al-Shabaab control.

The visit comes as Somali security forces continue expanding and reorganizing their military capabilities following months of intensified militant attacks across parts of central and southern Somalia.

Military officials say newly trained units will reinforce ongoing operations and support efforts to reclaim territory from the insurgent group.

The Qorilow Military Training School has become one of Somalia’s key military training centers, preparing new recruits and specialized units for frontline operations.

Its growing role reflects the government’s broader strategy of building a more capable national army as Somalia assumes greater responsibility for its own security following the gradual drawdown of international peacekeeping forces.

The latest inspection also underscores the government’s continued focus on improving troop readiness and sustaining pressure on Al-Shabaab, as security officials prepare for what they describe as a renewed campaign to weaken the group’s remaining strongholds and restore government authority in contested areas.