 Residents of Awdheegle district in Lower Shabelle province are finally feeling a sense of security now that the Somali National Army (SNA) has taken control of Daarusalaam and Mubaarak settlements. These areas, which are under the jurisdiction of Awdheegle district, were previously controlled by Al-Shabab fighters. The SNA, in collaboration with AUSSOM troops, successfully dislodged the militants from these settlements. The primary objective of this operation was to liberate Mubaarak, which is located 10 km west of Awdheegle. Daarusalaam is situated between Awdheegle and Mubaarak, and the troops crossed through this area before reaching Mubaarak. On October 4, the Somali Military, along with AUSSOM troops, regained control of Awdheegle, which had been under Al-Shabab’s control since March 15, 2025, after a fierce battle. Despite this victory, the residents of Awdheegle did not feel completely secure, as they were aware of Al-Shabab’s presence in Mubaarak. The militants’ continued presence in this area posed a significant threat to the district’s security, as they frequently launched attacks on Awdheegle from Mubaarak. It was not until August 6, 2019, when the SNA, in collaboration with AUSSOM troops, launched a large-scale offensive against Al-Shabab fighters, that Awdheegle was finally liberated. However, since 2025, Al-Shabab had managed to take control of the district multiple times by launching attacks from Mubaarak. Security experts understand that true security in Awdheegle can only be achieved if Mubaarak is also liberated. It is evident that the troops took a long time to reach these settlements, but they finally managed to do so last week. The joint offensive was launched after receiving reports that Al-Shabab was planning to launch attacks on Awdheegle. Local residents now report feeling safe and secure, and those who were previously displaced due to fear of Al-Shabab have begun to return to their homes in the district. Most of the residents in Awdheegle are farmers, and they are hopeful that they will be able to cultivate their land once the spring rains arrive. The Shabelle River, which they rely on for irrigation, has dried up
