In a significant development, the Somali National Army (SNA) and Ma’awisley militia reclaimed the Ruun-Nirgood and Hilowle Gaab districts from al-Shabaab. This marks a crucial step in the ongoing anti-al-Shabaab campaign that has been gripping Somalia. The government forces should now focus on holding and governing the captured area.
Ruun-Nirgood & Hilowle Gaab, Middle Shabelle & Galguduud, SOMALIA. By Dalmar:
Over the past few days, government troops and Ma’awisley forces had been strategically positioned around the districts, planning and coordinating their offensive against the al-Shabaab jihadists. Yesterday, their efforts culminated as al-Shabaab withdrew from the area without engaging in direct combat.
A recurring pattern has emerged throughout the ongoing operation to weaken al-Shabaab’s hold on the region. The government forces, in collaboration with the Ma’awisley militias, managed to liberate Ruun-Nirgood on 22 December 2022. However, their ability to maintain a grip did not last for long. Al-Shabaab attacked the government forces’ base in the area on March 25, claiming to kill 51 soldiers, destroying eight vehicles, and seizing weapons and military equipment.
In late June, al-Shabaab managed a swift takeover of the Daarul Nim’a village in the Ruun-Nirgood district. During the night, they advanced unopposed into the village after Ma’awisley forces, the incumbent custodians, and local inhabitants vacated, effectively abandoning the village to the insurgents. Eyewitnesses in the area confirmed the destruction left by al-Shabaab. The militants set houses ablaze, ruined a vital water well and demolished the single village mosque’s steps.
The risk of erosion of public trust
The repeated losses of (not only) the Ruun-Nirgood district could prevent residents from collaborating with government forces, as they perceive a lack of ability to ensure security and stability. This erosion of public trust poses a significant threat to counter-terrorism efforts. It also exacerbates Somalia’s already precarious security situation, especially on the eve of another phase of the counter-al-Shabaab offensive.
It becomes evident that a shift in strategy is essential to solidify the territorial gains made by the combined forces. Rather than relying solely on capturing territories, the focus should pivot toward robust governance and effective control. The government must harness this opportunity to not only liberate these areas but also to firmly establish authority, ensuring that they do not revert to the control of al-Shabaab.
The President of Somalia, currently visiting Dhuusamareeb, recently outlined a comprehensive plan with three fundamental pillars to end the ongoing conflict: the continuation of military operations, an ideological confrontation with al-Shabaab, and a robust economic offensive. The announcement marks a positive step in the government’s efforts.
