Somalia, October 18, 2025 – Somalia’s Chief of Defence Forces, Major General Odowaa Yousuf Rage and Defence Minister Omar Ali Abdi led a high-level delegation to Awdheegle, Lower Shabelle, to hand over the recently recaptured town to the community.
This visit comes 13 days after Somali National Armed Forces, supported by the African Union Support and Stabilizaton Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) troops recaptured Awdheegle from Al-Shabaab.
Speaking during the visit, Major General Odowaa commended the joint forces for their sacrifice and determination in liberating the town.
“This successful operation did not come easy; blood was spilt and we lost some of our colleagues, but finally, the joint forces managed to remove the Al-Shabaab terrorists from this town,” said the CDF, who was accompanied by AUSSOM Force Commander, Major General Sam Kavuma.
He condemned the atrocities committed by Al Shabaab, noting that the militants had mined parts of the town and burned civilian homes before fleeing.
“The terrorists are merciless people who have no regard for country, people or even religion,” said Major General Odowaa, adding that Somali Security Forces will continue pursuing Al Shabaab remnants in Lower Shabelle.
He urged displaced residents to return, assuring them of the government’s security and protection of their property.
In his remarks, Major General Kavuma reiterated AUSSOM’s continued support for Somali-led operations.
“The joint forces will remain vigilant and mobile to ensure Al Shabaab is defeated and communities stay in peace and security,” said Major General Kavuma.
Minister Omar praised the collaboration between Somali Security Forces and AUSSOM troops describing it as an important coalition in the fight against Al Shabaab and other illegal armed groups.
Major General Odowaa highlighted the African Union forces’ critical role in supporting Somalia’s peacebuilding process.
“The African Union forces, having achieved progress in their own countries, decided that the Somali people should no longer remain under the control of the enemy. We appreciate their help,” he noted.
The delegation also distributed food items to returning residents who lost their property to Al Shabaab militants.
The visit marked the success of Operation Silent Storm, a joint Somali National Armed Forces and Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) offensive that recaptured Sabid-Anole, Barire and Awdheegle.