U.S to construct 5 new military bases for Somali forces it trains

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U.S to construct 5 new military bases for Somali forces it trains

MOGADISHU (HORN OBSERVER) – In a strategic move amidst escalating militant attacks and widespread corruption within Somalia's government, the United States government has finalized an agreement with Somalia to establish five new military b

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The United States government has finalized an agreement with Somalia to establish five new military bases within the war-torn nation.

MOGADISHU (HORN OBSERVER) – In a strategic move amidst escalating militant attacks and widespread corruption within Somalia's government, the United States government has finalized an agreement with Somalia to establish five new military bases within the war-torn nation.

The accord, sealed today, marks a significant development in bolstering security measures across Somalia, with plans for the construction of military installations in key locations including Baidoa, Dhusamareb, Jowhar, Kismayo, and the capital, Mogadishu.

However, the deployment of these bases isn’t aimed at bolstering the regular Somali forces. Rather, they are intended to serve as training and operational hubs for the elite U.S.-trained unit known as Danab.

The agreement, formalized on Thursday in Mogadishu, was signed by Somali Defense Minister Abdukadir Nur Jama and the Acting U.S. Ambassador, Shane Dixon, underscoring the commitment of both nations to combatting the rising threat of extremism and terrorism within Somalia’s borders.

Molly Phee, the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, graced the signing ceremony with her presence, signifying the importance attributed to the pact by American authorities.

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud welcomed the support, labeling it as a "significant contribution” towards the government’s ongoing efforts to fortify its national defense capabilities and effectively counter the looming specter of international terrorism.

Currently, the United States maintains a limited presence of military personnel in Somalia, primarily tasked with advising and assisting the Danab forces, known for their swift and targeted operations against extremist elements.

Furthermore, the U.S. conducts airstrikes against Al-Shabaab militants, providing vital support to Somali government forces in their relentless battle against insurgency.

The urgency of such intervention was underscored earlier this year when Al-Shabaab militants launched a brazen assault, seizing control of four army bases in central Somalia.

The raid resulted in the capture of millions of dollars’ worth of military equipment, including advanced weaponry, ammunition, and vehicles, highlighting the persistent threat posed by the extremist group.

As Somalia and its international allies navigate the complex landscape of security challenges, the establishment of these military bases signals a concerted effort to fortify defenses and stem the tide of extremism that has plagued the nation for far too long.