MOGADISHU, Somalia – Somalia is steadily building its vision of a 100,000-strong national army, with international partners playing a pivotal role in transforming this ambition into reality. Qatar has been at the forefront, providing advanced training to Somali troops, strengthening the country’s peacekeeping capacity in the Horn of Africa.
Other nations—including the United States, Turkey, the United Kingdom, Uganda, Eritrea, the UAE, and Ethiopia—have also contributed to training and equipping the Somali National Army (SNA). Their collective support aims to enable Somalia to take charge of its own security after years of unrest and instability.
Recent reports reveal that a new security unit has been established in Mogadishu following the return of 600 Somali soldiers from an extended training program in Doha. Operating under the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) Banadir command, the unit benefits from Turkey’s provision of weapons and equipment, reflecting Ankara’s continued commitment to Somalia’s security sector.
The unit has now reached full brigade strength, with personnel deployed to safeguard key sites across the capital. Locals have praised the soldiers for their discipline and professionalism, noting their courteous interactions and growing presence on social media. This new brigade is gradually integrating into the broader Somali National Army, enhancing Mogadishu’s security posture amid ongoing challenges.
Meanwhile, security threats persist along the Kenya-Somalia border. On Wednesday, an improvised explosive device (IED) struck a Border Patrol Unit vehicle on the Kulan-Liboi road in Garissa County, killing two officers and injuring five. Officials confirmed the patrol was targeted in an area frequently used by suspected Al-Shabaab militants. Kenyan forces are actively pursuing the attackers, with Special Operations Group units stationed in the volatile region to bolster security.
This incident underscores the continuing danger posed by militant groups exploiting porous borders, even as Somalia and its partners make significant strides in building a capable national army.