LAS ANOD — The Commander of the Somali National Army’s (SNA) Ground Forces, Maj. Gen. Khalid Abdullahi, arrived in Las Anod on Thursday leading a delegation of senior military officers as part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to integrate regional security forces into the national armed forces.
According to Somali military officials, the delegation will oversee the restructuring, registration, training, and unification of the North Eastern regional government forces to ensure they conform to the organizational structure, command hierarchy, and operational standards of the Somali National Army.
The integration process is intended to create a more cohesive and professional national force capable of operating under a unified chain of command while improving coordination among military units deployed across the country.
Officials said the initiative is a key component of Somalia’s wider security sector reform program, which seeks to strengthen state institutions, enhance the professionalism of the armed forces, and consolidate federal authority through the gradual incorporation of regional forces into the national military.
The visit to Las Anod underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to building a unified national army as Somalia continues efforts to modernize its security institutions and improve its capacity to respond to security threats, including the ongoing fight against al-Shabaab and other armed groups.
Military officials said the delegation will hold consultations with regional leaders and commanders during the visit to coordinate the implementation of the integration process, assess the readiness of local forces, and identify logistical and training requirements needed to complete the transition.
The force integration initiative forms part of broader national efforts to establish a unified, professional, and accountable security architecture capable of safeguarding Somalia’s territorial integrity, supporting stabilization efforts, and maintaining long-term peace and security throughout the country.
