Somali National Army and AU Forces Liberate Strategic Awdheegle District from Al-Shabaab
The Somali National Army (SNA), in partnership with Ugandan troops serving under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), has successfully captured the strategic Awdheegle district in the Lower Shabelle region. The Ministry of Defense announced the achievement on Saturday, describing it as a significant milestone in the ongoing “Silent Storm” offensive, a multi-phase campaign aimed at dismantling Al-Shabaab’s stronghold in southern Somalia.
Awdheegle, located approximately 80 kilometers southwest of Mogadishu, is a crucial agricultural town and a key hub for supply routes that support nearby communities. For years, the district had served as a hideout and revenue source for Al-Shabaab militants. With its liberation, Somali and AU forces are now conducting clearance operations to ensure the safety of civilians and eliminate any remaining threats.
The offensive began with pre-dawn operations last Friday, during which government troops, backed by AU peacekeepers, recaptured key villages within the district, including Shaamgare and Raqayle. Forces discovered and overran underground tunnels and fortified positions during brief firefights. Officials confirmed that several militants were killed while others fled the area. Notably, joint forces reported no casualties on their side.
Al-Shabaab, an al-Qaida-linked group that has waged a 17-year insurgency in Somalia, continues to carry out sporadic attacks while maintaining control over parts of southern and central regions. The federal government, supported by international partners, has pledged to continue the second phase of its counteroffensive, focusing on securing all liberated areas ahead of the planned drawdown of African Union Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) troops.
The recapture of Awdheegle not only weakens Al-Shabaab’s operational capabilities but also marks a critical step toward ensuring stability and security for local communities. By securing key towns and supply routes, Somali and AU forces are laying the groundwork for lasting peace and improved governance in the Lower Shabelle region.
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