The Somali army will receive a $9 million donation from the United States, including weapons, support and construction trucks, explosive ordnance, disposal kits, medical supplies, and maintenance equipment.
The shipment will help the Somali National Army in its effort to rid Somalia’s villages of the terrorist organisation al-Shabab. It is destined for the elite Danab battalions, particularly those that operate in the HirShabelle and Galmudug states.
“The $9 million in weapons, vehicles, and equipment from the United States will support the successful campaign by the Somali National Army to liberate Somalia’s communities from al-Shabaab,” said the US Embassy in Mogadishu in a statement.
“We are grateful to the Minister of Defense, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nor, and the Somali National Army Force Commander, Odowaa Yusuf Rage, for their efforts in combating al-Shabaab.”
The logistical support, both lethal and non-lethal, obtained, according to Minister Nor, will help the Danab troops be more effective in their ongoing conflict with the terrorist organisation.
For many years, the US has supported Somalia strategically in its war against al-Shabab by giving the Somali forces both financial and military support. The US not only donates guns and equipment but also trains the Danab forces.
The Somali National Army’s Danab is a highly skilled and specialised corps. They were initially set up in 2013 with US aid as an anti-terrorism unit to combat al-Shabab.
The Danab has played a critical part in the ongoing attempts to fight the terrorist organisation and bring stability to the country, winning some notable successes and playing an essential role in safeguarding people and supplying protection for major projects.
“The weapons received from our partners today showcase the remarkable progress made by our Military,” said Minister Nor.
“The US has remained a strategic partner for Somalia in combating al-Shabaab over the years. The donation of $9 million in weapons and equipment is just the latest example of the US commitment to supporting the Somali Military in its efforts to bring stability and security to the country.”
The US has a long history of aiding Somalia in its war against al-Shabaab, and this most recent donation is evidence of the US’s continued support for the Somali military and its citizens.