KISMAYO, Somalia (WDN) – Jubaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Ahmed Madobe) paid a high-profile visit this week to U.S. military personnel stationed in the region as part of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) mission, in a move aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation and acknowledging the role of American forces in Somalia’s security efforts. 

Madobe’s visit comes at a time of heightened security activity in southern Somalia, with both Somali and international forces intensifying efforts to dismantle Al-Shabaab’s presence in the region.  

During the visit, President Madobe praised the continued support provided by U.S. forces in the areas of counterterrorism, military training, and regional stabilization operations. He highlighted their direct contribution to recent military offensives against the Al-Shabaab militant group, known locally as the Khawaarij, in multiple areas across Jubaland.The President underscored the importance of sustained collaboration between Jubaland authorities and AFRICOM, particularly in bolstering local capacity and securing hard-won gains. 

“These troops have shown remarkable courage and partnership in our shared fight against terror,” Madobe stated, as he officially presented U.S. service members with Medals of Honor and Certificates of Appreciation. “Their support has been instrumental in the success of recent operations that dealt a heavy blow to the extremists.”

The U.S. remains one of Somalia’s key security partners, providing logistical support, intelligence, and training to elite Somali units engaged in the fight against insurgent groups.

The visit also served to reaffirm the strategic alliance between Jubaland and the United States in pursuing regional peace and security.

WardheerNews