MOGADISHU — Turkey has announced a significant escalation in its support for Somalia’s campaign against armed Islamist groups, marking the first time Ankara has publicly committed to more direct involvement in ongoing counterterrorism efforts.
Speaking on the new policy direction, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said Ankara would intensify its backing for Somali forces battling militants linked to Al-Shabaab and the local affiliate of Islamic State.
“Turkey will directly support the efforts of Somali security forces in their fight against Al-Shabaab and Daacish,” Fidan said, underscoring what he described as a strategic priority for Ankara in the Horn of Africa.
The announcement signals a shift from Turkey’s longstanding role focused primarily on training, infrastructure, and humanitarian assistance, toward a more operational posture. Analysts say the move could include enhanced military training, intelligence-sharing, logistical support, and potentially closer coordination on security operations.
Turkey has been one of Somalia’s closest international partners for over a decade, maintaining its largest overseas military training base in Mogadishu, known as Camp TURKSOM. Thousands of Somali troops have graduated from the facility, forming a core component of Somalia’s elite units engaged in frontline operations.
The renewed commitment comes as Somali authorities ramp up offensives against Al-Shabaab strongholds in central and southern regions, amid concerns that the group remains capable of launching deadly attacks despite sustained military pressure.
Security experts note that Ankara’s deeper involvement could bolster the Somali government’s operational capacity at a critical moment, particularly as international partners reassess their military footprints in the region.
Somalia has welcomed the move, describing Turkey as a “trusted ally” whose support has been instrumental in rebuilding national institutions following decades of conflict.
While details of the expanded cooperation remain limited, officials suggest further announcements could follow in the coming weeks as both governments formalize the scope of their partnership in counterterrorism operations.
