MOGADISHU – Somalia’s Army Chief, Brigadier General Ibrahim Mohamed Mohamud, visited the strategic Balidoogle Military Base on Saturday, where he inspected elite special forces units and training facilities as the government intensifies its campaign against the Islamist militant group Al-Shabaab.
Accompanied by senior officers of the Somali National Army (SNA), the commander toured the General Hassan Tuure Military Training School, where recruits from the 12th intake of the U.S.-trained Danab Special Forces are currently undergoing advanced military training.
The visit also included inspections of operational facilities belonging to the Danab Special Forces and the 161st Battalion of the 16th Danab Commando Brigade, one of the army’s key units involved in ongoing counterinsurgency operations across the country.
Military officials said the visit was aimed at assessing troop readiness, strengthening coordination among security units, and boosting the morale of soldiers preparing for future operations against Al-Shabaab, which continues to carry out attacks despite sustained military pressure from Somali forces and international partners.
Addressing officers and recruits, Brig. Gen. Ibrahim praised the commitment and sacrifices of the armed forces in defending Somalia’s sovereignty and restoring security in areas affected by militant activity.
At the conclusion of the visit, the army chief congratulated a number of Danab officers who were recently promoted to higher ranks, describing their advancement as recognition of professionalism and dedication to national service.
He urged the officers to uphold military discipline, lead by example, and remain committed to protecting civilians and safeguarding the country from security threats.
The Balidoogle Military Base, located about 90 kilometers northwest of Mogadishu in the Lower Shabelle region, serves as a major training and operational center for Somalia’s elite Danab Commandos, who have played a leading role in military offensives against Al-Shabaab across southern and central Somalia.
