MOGADISHU — The Commander of the Somali National Army’s (SNA) Ground Forces, Gen. Khalid, has arrived in Dhusamareb, the administrative capital of Galmudug State, as the Federal Government accelerates preparations for a new large-scale military offensive against the militant group al-Shabaab.
The visit comes amid increased military deployments across central Somalia, where government forces are finalizing plans for a coordinated operation aimed at recapturing territories still under al-Shabaab’s control in Galmudug and neighboring areas. The offensive is expected to involve the Somali National Army, Galmudug security forces, and allied local community fighters known as Macawiisley.
Military officials said Gen. Khalid’s visit is focused on assessing the operational readiness of frontline troops, inspecting military positions, reviewing logistics and supply lines, and coordinating battle plans with senior commanders and Galmudug authorities ahead of the offensive.
During his stay in Dhusamareb, the commander is also expected to hold strategic meetings with regional political leaders and security officials to strengthen coordination between federal and state forces and ensure a unified command structure for the upcoming campaign.
Security sources say additional troops, armored vehicles, weapons, and military supplies have been deployed to key locations across Galmudug in recent weeks as the government intensifies preparations for what could become one of its largest operations in central Somalia this year.
The offensive is expected to target al-Shabaab strongholds, disrupt the group’s command and supply networks, reopen strategic roads linking major towns, and restore government authority in areas that have remained outside state control. Officials also hope the campaign will improve security conditions, facilitate humanitarian access, and enable displaced communities to return to their homes.
The operation forms part of Somalia’s broader national counterterrorism strategy to weaken al-Shabaab’s operational capabilities and expand government control across the country. Authorities have repeatedly reaffirmed that defeating the militant group remains a top national security priority.
Gen. Khalid’s arrival in Dhusamareb signals that military preparations have entered a decisive phase, with security forces expected to launch coordinated operations in the coming days as the government seeks to build on recent gains against al-Shabaab in central Somalia.
