US, Somalia ink deal for construction of five military bases

The federal government of Somalia and the United States have formally agreed to construct five military bases for the Somali National Army (SNA) Danab Brigade.

The military facilities will be strategically located in four cities out of the five federal member states – in Baidoa, Dhusamareb, Jowhar, Kismayo, and Mogadishu.

The establishments will reinforce additional technical assistance for Mogadishu to deter, degrade, and counter violent extremist organizations in Somalia.

The deal will enhance the capacity of Somalia's Ministry of National Defense and National Army (SNA) to prevent and respond to terrorism and violent extremism.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud praised the initiative, stating it is a "significant contribution to the Government’s efforts to build an effective national army capable of taking over security responsibilities and countering the threat of international terrorism in the country."

He emphasized the valuable collaboration between Somalia and the US in developing the security sector and contributing to the strengthening of regional peace and security.

President Hassan on Thursday highlighted the positive outcomes of US investments in the Somali Forces and Danab commandos, fostering a robust strike force crucial in leading offensives against the militant group Al-Shabaab.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud holds meeting with U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Molly Phee. (Photo: Villa Somalia)

Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Molly Phee witnessed the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the construction of the bases for the SNA Danab Brigade in Kismayo.

The pact was signed by Somali Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur and Shane L. Dixon, the US charge d'affaires in Mogadishu.

During the meeting, President Hassan reaffirmed his administration's commitment to defeating Al-Shabaab.

He expressed gratitude for the continuous US support toward Somalia's path to security and stability.

They discussed avenues to strengthen Somalia-US security and development cooperation, including ongoing support for enhancing the operational capabilities of the SNA.

The US has been a significant contributor to Somalia's efforts in degrading Al-Shabaab through security assistance, including training and equipping the Danab component of SNA.

Phee highlighted Washington's commitment to strengthening its collaboration with the African Union during the recently concluded AU Summit.

She underscored the United States' dedication to fostering democracy, peace, economic development, and public health initiatives across the African continent.

Phee, who oversees the United States Mission to the African Union (USAU), emphasized the strong partnership between the USAU and the AU.

The collaboration focuses on shared global priorities like promoting openness, delivering democratic and security benefits, fostering economic opportunities, preventing and preparing for pandemics, supporting conservation, and adapting to climate change.

In November, the US announced a $9 million military aid package to assist Somalia in its ongoing campaign against Al-Shabaab militants.

The commandos, numbering around 3,000-4,000, have achieved some success in reclaiming territory from Al-Shabaab.

The unit in the past 12 months played a leading role in the offensive against Al-Shabaab. They have led the liberation of more than 100 towns and villages across central Somalia from the militants.

Danab forces play a crucial role in degrading Al-Shabaab’s ability to conduct attacks across the region, including disrupting its financial and military operations in the region.

The US has in the past provided military support ranging from heavy weapons, equipment support and construction of vehicles, explosive ordinance disposal kits, medical supplies, and maintenance equipment for vehicles and weapons.