Mogadishu(SONNA)-The Prime Minister of the Federal Government of Somalia, H.E. Hamza Abdi Barre, accompanied by the Minister of Defence, H.E. Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, today presided over the handover of command between the newly appointed Commander of the Somali National Army (SNA), Brig. General Ibrahim Mohamed Mohamud, and the outgoing Commander, Maj. General Odowaa Yusuf Raage, following a ceremony held at the Ministry of Defence.
In a speech delivered at the event, the Prime Minister commended General Odowaa for his role and leadership during his tenure, noting that the Somali National Army had achieved significant successes in the fight against Al-Shabaab, and that public confidence in the national armed forces had increased.
Mr Hamza Abdi Barre instructed the new Commander to further strengthen efforts to rebuild and enhance the Somali National Army, giving particular priority to national defence, safeguarding national unity, and eliminating Al-Shabaab terrorists.
He emphasised that the Government stands with the armed forces and is committed to addressing military needs—both in training and in equipment.
For his part, the Minister of Defence of the Federal Government of Somalia, H.E. Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, said the handover is part of the state governance process, adding that the Ministry will continue to accelerate efforts to improve the Somali National Army’s capability, discipline, and equipping.
The Minister thanked the outgoing Commander for his efforts and sacrifice, wished the new Commander success, and pledged full support from the Ministry to ensure national security and to defeat enemies both internal and external.
Also in attendance at the handover ceremony were the Minister of Internal Security, H.E. Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail Fartaag; the State Minister for Defence, MP Omar Ali Abdi; the Commander of the Somali Police Force, Brigadier General Asad Osman Abdullahi; commanders of various military formations, officials, the Ambassador of Turkey and representatives of the international community, and other distinguished guests.
