Tuesday August 27, 2024
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has appointed General Abdullahi Gafow Mohamud as his new adviser on the armed forces, the presidency announced Monday, as the government intensifies its military campaign against the al-Qaida-linked group al-Shabab.
General Gafow, who previously served as the director of the Somali National Security and Intelligence Agency (NISA) and the Director of the Immigration and Nationality Agency, has extensive experience in national security in his new role.
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"General Abdullahi Gafow Mohamud has extensive experience in ensuring internal security and national defence," the presidential decree stated, emphasizing the general's previous leadership roles and expected contributions to the ongoing conflict.The appointment was part of President Mohamud's broader strategy to rebuild the Somali National Army (SNA) and strengthen efforts to combat al-Shabab, which has been a persistent threat to the country's stability, the decree added.
In 2022, President Mohamud declared a "total war" against al-Shabab, vowing to eliminate the militant group that frequently targets government officials, security personnel, and civilians in Mogadishu and other regions.
The move comes as Somalia's government continues to face significant challenges in its fight against al-Shabab, which has carried out numerous deadly attacks across the country. The conflict has displaced thousands and hindered efforts to stabilize the nation.