Reports from the Bay region indicate that Al-Shabab members have returned to the road connecting Baidoa and Buurhakaba, just weeks after being pushed out of the area. This development follows the Somali Federal Government’s decision to airlift some of the troops who had taken control of Baidoa in March of this year to Jowhar at the end of this week. These troops, who were mobilized in Mogadishu with support from local clan fighters in Buurhakaba, successfully reopened the road and took control of Baidoa on March 30, 2026. The troops, known as Gorgor, were aided by Turkish drones in removing Al-Shabab fighters from the road, particularly in the stronghold of Mooda-Moode, located 26 km east of Baidoa. However, recent reports suggest that Al-Shabab has re-established a checkpoint in Mooda-Moode, where they are extorting illegal taxes from travelers. The presence of Al-Shabab in the area has been confirmed by local travelers, and the Somali National Army’s 60th Division, stationed in the military base in Daynuunay, are not ready to prevent their resurgence. This is a concerning development, especially as South West State prepares for upcoming elections in three regions within the coming weeks. The re-emergence of Al-Shabab on this important road poses a threat to the safe travel of officials, who will need to travel by land between Baidoa and Buurhakaba, located 66 km apart. These two towns are among the 12 locations where direct elections are scheduled to take place on April 28, 2026 in South West State. The local population will have to endure long queues to cast their votes and choose their local councilors and members of parliament.
