Somalia’s Minister of defense, Mr. Ahmed Ma’alin Fiqi, flanked by the Army Chief of Somalia’s National Army (SNA), General Ibrahim Mohamed Mohamud, yesterday, paid an inspection visit to military positions in Baidoa, according to a statement released by the defense ministry. The visit is part of the constant inspections which are aimed in ensuring the army’s situation, and in expediting the maintenance of security, operations which are aimed to flush out terrorists, and to strengthen the unity of the national army, said the statement. The defense minister accompanied by the Army Chief held meetings with army officers based in Baidoa. They delivered speeches to the soldiers, commending their bravery, resilience and sacrifice that they have shown during the military operations which paved the way for the reopening of Baidoa-Mogadishu highway, which is crucial for movement of people, and trade. On the other hand, the defense minister accompanied by the army chief paid an inspection visit also to the military training camp of Somalia’s National Army (SNA), in Baidoa which was implemented thanks to the UK’s consistent support to Somalia’s armed forces. The officials inspected the various departments of the camp, reiterating the significance to recommence trainings given to the army and their development in order to build an army that has a quality and professionalism, which will be part of the ongoing operations against terrorists and the defense of the country. The Somali Military took control of Baidoa on March 30, after carrying out a broad military operation, which paved the way for the President of South West State to forcibly resign from office. The inspection of these officials in army positions is part of the ongoing efforts to remove the military from the town so as to establish military bases in the vicinity of the town.
