Mogadishu, Somalia – The Minister of Defence, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, on Wednesday met with the outgoing Commander of the Joint Special Operations Task Force – East Africa (JSOTF-EA), Colonel Ed Norris, to acknowledge his contribution to Somalia’s security efforts.
During the meeting, Fiqi expressed his deep appreciation for Col. Norris’s close cooperation and steadfast support to the Somali National Army (SNA). He highlighted the Colonel’s role in advancing the training and operational deployment of specialised SNA units, which have been central to ongoing counter-terrorism operations.
The defence minister commended the partnership between JSOTF-EA and Somali forces, noting that it had strengthened the country’s ability to confront and dismantle Al-Shabaab’s network. He also wished Colonel Norris success in his future assignments, praising his professionalism and commitment throughout his tenure.
Col. Norris’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter in the military collaboration between Somalia and the United States, which continues to focus on building a capable, self-reliant Somali security sector.