MOGADISHU (KAAB TV) – The United States has pledged to significantly increase its military assistance to Somalia as part of a renewed effort to combat the ongoing threats posed by terrorist groups Al-Shabaab and Daesh.
This renewed commitment was announced following a high-level meeting in Mogadishu between Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and the newly appointed Commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), General Dagvin R. M. Anderson. The discussions marked the general’s first official visit to Somalia as part of his regional tour of African countries under AFRICOM’s strategic oversight.
The meeting, which extended over several hours, centered on strengthening Somalia’s defense capabilities through a multi-pronged strategy. Key topics included expanding U.S. airstrike operations targeting terrorist strongholds, enhancing intelligence sharing between the two countries, and bolstering the training and professionalism of Somali security forces.
Both leaders also addressed wider regional security concerns, with a specific focus on the cross-border movement of armed groups in the Horn of Africa. The importance of regional cooperation and intelligence coordination to tackle transnational threats was emphasized during the talks.
General Anderson briefed President Mohamud on AFRICOM’s current operational strategy in Somalia and reiterated Washington’s steadfast support for Somalia’s efforts to rebuild its national institutions and enhance security. He expressed confidence in the Somali government’s leadership and reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to long-term cooperation.
President Mohamud welcomed the renewed military partnership and praised AFRICOM’s active role in supporting Somalia’s ongoing security sector reforms. He underscored his administration’s determination to strengthen international alliances aimed at achieving lasting peace, not only in Somalia but across the broader Horn of Africa.
“The Somali people have endured decades of instability, and we are committed to building a future of peace, resilience, and self-reliance,” President Mohamud said. “Our partnership with the United States remains critical to achieving these goals.”
The United States continues to be one of Somalia’s most important security allies, providing extensive training, logistical support, and airpower in the fight against extremist factions. The visit by General Anderson highlights Washington’s strategic interest in stabilizing the region and ensuring that gains made against terrorism are sustained.
As Somalia works to reclaim territory and dismantle extremist networks, the deepening collaboration with the United States is expected to play a vital role in shaping the country’s security landscape in the years ahead.