Mogadishu(SONNA)-Minister of Defense of the Federal Government of Somalia, H.E. Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, has announced that government forces have fully secured the strategic road linking Mogadishu and Baidoa, a major breakthrough in ongoing military operations.
In an interview with national television, the Minister said the Somali National Army successfully cleared and reopened the route earlier this week after swiftly dislodging militant fighters from key positions.
“The road is now safe for civilian movement, restoring vital connectivity between the capital and the Bay region”, He said.
He stated that the armed forces have regained strong operational capacity and are now able to conduct precise offensives in remaining militant-held areas. Recent operations include preemptive strikes and a surprise attack on a key militant stronghold in Jilib, Middle Juba.
The Minister also outlined plans to advance operations on the ground from Barawe in Lower Shabelle toward Jilib, as part of a broader strategy to expand government control across the country.
Ahmed Moalim Fiqi emphasized that the military has overcome past challenges and now demonstrates improved coordination and combat readiness. He reaffirmed the government’s determination to continue pursuing militant groups and eliminating their presence nationwide.
