Awdheegle, Lower Shabelle – The Commander of the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) Land Forces, Brigadier General Sahal Abdullahi Omar, paid a high-profile visit on Saturday to the recently liberated town of Awdheegle in Lower Shabelle, marking a key moment in Somalia’s ongoing military offensive against Al-Shabaab.
The visit followed the town’s recapture under Operation Silent Storm, a joint effort involving Somali forces and their allies from the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF). Walking through streets that only days earlier echoed with gunfire, Brig. Gen. Sahal praised the tenacity of the troops who fought to reclaim the strategic area.
“Your resilience is the backbone of this nation’s hope,” he told soldiers gathered at the former militant stronghold. His words carried both pride and urgency — a reminder that liberation marks only the first phase of recovery.
Beyond the military inspection, the Commander held extensive discussions with community elders, district authorities, and civil society representatives. The talks focused on stabilization plans, including the safe return of displaced families, reopening of schools and markets, and supporting local administration to regain functionality.
Residents, many of whom cautiously emerged from hiding as troops secured the area, expressed optimism but also concern about lingering threats. Local leaders urged the government to maintain a strong security presence to prevent insurgent regrouping.
Brig. Gen. Sahal assured them that Awdheegle would not be abandoned after the cameras leave. He emphasized that restoring normal life — not just defeating militants — is the true measure of success.
Operation Silent Storm has seen several major advances in recent weeks, but commanders acknowledge that securing liberated areas against counterattacks is one of the greatest challenges ahead. For the people of Awdheegle, today’s visit signaled that their town is not just won, but valued.
“We will rebuild together,” the Commander vowed before departing. “This is not just a military victory — it is the return of hope.”