Mogadishu, Somalia – Somalia’s fight against insurgency received a significant boost on Thursday after the Government of the United Kingdom formally handed over modern vehicles and specialized equipment to the Somali National Army (SNA) to enhance its capacity to counter improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
At a handover ceremony in Mogadishu, Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi and the Chief of Defence Forces, General Odowaa Yusuf Rageh, jointly received the donation on behalf of the Federal Government. Senior Somali military officials and representatives from the British government attended the event, which underscored growing international support for Somalia’s security sector.
The vehicles and equipment, tailored to counter IED threats, are expected to play a crucial role in protecting both civilians and security forces. IEDs remain one of the deadliest tactics used by Al-Shabaab militants, posing a persistent challenge to Somalia’s stabilization and counter-terrorism efforts.
Speaking at the event, Fiqi praised the United Kingdom for its continued partnership and investment in Somalia’s security, noting that the equipment would directly strengthen ongoing military operations.
“This donation comes at a critical time as our forces intensify operations against Al-Shabaab. These tools will save lives and increase the mobility and effectiveness of our troops,” he said.
Gen. Rageh emphasized the importance of modernizing the army’s logistical and technical capabilities. He highlighted that the new vehicles would be deployed immediately to frontline units, particularly those operating in regions heavily affected by roadside bombings and guerrilla-style attacks.
British officials reiterated their government’s commitment to supporting Somalia’s state-building process, with a particular focus on professionalizing the security forces. The donation forms part of a broader package of assistance aimed at improving Somalia’s ability to independently secure its territory as African Union peacekeepers gradually draw down under the transition to the new African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
Security analysts welcomed the development, noting that effective counter-IED capabilities are essential for sustaining military gains against Al-Shabaab and ensuring safer humanitarian access in liberated areas.
The handover marks another milestone in the deepening defence cooperation between Somalia and the United Kingdom, as Mogadishu seeks to build a capable, self-reliant national army that can secure peace and stability across the country.