By HAN Newe Desk
MOGADISHU — An Italian C-130 cargo plane delivered heavy military equipment to Mogadishu on Thursday, part of Italy’s ongoing, though limited, support for Somalia’s armed forces. Sources say the shipment included several armored vehicles, though it remains unclear whether the total number of combat vehicles reaches the 30 units previously discussed in reports about Italian assistance to Somalia.
The delivery comes amid renewed attention on Somalia’s shifting international partnerships. Recently, Italy’s Defense Minister acknowledged that his country had largely neglected Somalia in recent years, allowing Turkey to expand its influence in the strategically important Horn of Africa nation. Speaking before the Italian Parliament, the minister noted that Turkey has assumed many of the roles that Italy historically held in Somalia, reflecting a broader realignment in regional engagement.
Italy, Somalia’s former colonial ruler, has maintained a limited security presence in the country, mostly focused on training and logistics support. However, recent Turkish investment and involvement in Somalia’s infrastructure, humanitarian programs, and military capacity have overshadowed Italy’s contributions, highlighting a changing balance of foreign influence in Mogadishu.
Observers note that such shipments from Italy are largely symbolic, but they carry diplomatic weight, signaling Italy’s intention to remain a relevant partner in Somalia, even as Turkey consolidates its role.
