Beledweyne, (HAN) – The Somali National Army (SNA) has pledged to step up its military campaign against extremist groups in central Somalia, with senior commanders vowing to liberate key areas still under militant control.
Brigadier Colonel Ali “Agey,” commander of the SNA’s 27th Division, announced that operations are underway to drive out militants from territories they have recently infiltrated. Speaking in Beledweyne, the capital of Hiiraan region, Colonel Agey assured residents that government forces will not allow extremists to re-establish footholds in previously liberated areas.
“Al-Shabaab will soon be removed from every place they have entered. The people of Somalia can rest assured that their army is determined to protect them and reclaim all territories under threat,” Colonel Agey declared.
Known as one of the SNA’s most active field officers, Colonel Agey has played a decisive role in several key battles across central and southern Somalia. Notable victories include operations in Harardhere, Sabil, Anole, and Bariir, where government troops, supported by community fighters, inflicted heavy losses on insurgents.
He has also earned praise from Somali citizens for his professionalism and neutrality. Community elders and civil society leaders describe him as a soldier devoted to the national interest, steering clear of clan-based favoritism—a factor that has historically weakened Somali state institutions.
The Somali government, with backing from international partners, launched a renewed offensive against Al-Shabaab in 2022, focusing on central regions such as Hiiraan and Galmudug. Local clan militias, known as Ma’awisley, have been instrumental in supporting the army during these operations. While government forces have reclaimed significant swathes of territory, militants continue to stage deadly counterattacks, highlighting the challenges of stabilizing liberated areas.
Security analysts stress the strategic importance of Beledweyne and its surrounding districts, which serve as vital trade routes linking central Somalia to Mogadishu and Ethiopia. Retaining control of these areas is considered critical to sustaining the government’s wider counter-insurgency campaign.
For residents of Hiiraan, Colonel Agey’s vow has raised hopes of lasting stability. “We have suffered for too long under extremist control. The commitment of our army is the only way forward,” said a community elder in Beledweyne.
As Somalia continues its struggle to rebuild after more than three decades of state collapse, restoring security in militant strongholds remains vital to strengthening government authority, rebuilding infrastructure, and reviving economic growth.
