By Horn Africa News
BALIDOOGLE, Lower Shabelle – A new unit of Somalia’s elite Danab Special Forces has graduated after completing intensive training at the Balidoogle military base, the Somalia’s main hub for counter-terrorism operations jointly operated with U.S. forces.
The recruits, drawn from carefully vetted Somali youth, were equipped with modern light weapons, a significant upgrade from the standard arms of the Somali National Army. Military officials said the combination of advanced training and new equipment has boosted the unit’s combat readiness and ability to conduct precision operations.
The newly trained unit will be integrated into Somalia’s Special Forces structure and is expected to work closely with U.S. troops stationed in the country.
The partnership is regarded as central to ongoing efforts against Al-Shabaab, which continues to carry out violent attacks across Somalia.
American forces have played a key role in training, advising, and equipping Danab, and have at times directly joined operations. Their support has helped make Danab one of Somalia’s most professional and effective fighting units.
Since its establishment in 2013, the Danab brigade has been at the forefront of government offensives against Al-Shabaab, executing targeted strikes on the group’s bases, leadership, and supply routes, particularly in Lower Shabelle, Middle Shabelle, and the Jubba regions.
Renowned for its urban combat skills and rapid-response capabilities, Danab has become a backbone of Somalia’s fight against insurgents. Balidoogle remains the central hub for training and launching operations against militant strongholds.
Military leaders said the latest graduation is part of a broader effort to expand Danab’s numbers, ensuring wider deployment across Somalia and preparing national forces to gradually take full responsibility for security.
Political and Security Implications
• Federal Government Credibility: The expansion of Danab strengthens Mogadishu’s ability to demonstrate progress on security amid persistent criticism of weak military capacity.
• International Cooperation: The training highlights Washington’s view of Somalia as a key front in the global fight against terrorism, while underscoring Mogadishu’s reliance on foreign military support.
• Challenges Ahead: Analysts warn Danab’s sustainability depends heavily on continued U.S. backing. Without external support, maintaining the unit’s operational strength will be difficult. Somalia’s broader security needs also extend far beyond Danab’s current capacity.While the new unit represents a growing threat to Al-Shabaab through precision operations, experts caution that military efforts alone cannot deliver lasting peace. Long-term stability will require political reconciliation, improved governance, and delivery of essential public services.
