MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, addressing parliament on Saturday, vowed to bolster Puntland regional forces in their campaign against ISIS militants and announced plans to establish a task force dedicated to these efforts.
Speaking at the opening of the 6th session of Somalia’s parliament, Mohamud commended Puntland’s troops and residents for their ongoing operations to dislodge ISIS from mountainous areas near the coastal town of Bosaso. The president’s remarks come as the region intensifies its fight against the militant group, which has sought to establish a foothold in the area.
On the broader war against Al-Shabaab, Mohamud asserted that the Islamist group has lost hope of reclaiming territories it ceded during Somali military operations over the past three years.
However, his comments follow a deadly wave of attacks by Al-Shabaab on Thursday, in which the group briefly seized multiple towns in the Middle Shabelle region, marking one of its most lethal offensives in recent years.
In a significant development for Somalia’s technological and economic ambitions, Mohamud announced planned construction of a satellite launchpad, which will also be the first of its kind in Africa. Reports indicate that Turkey will build the facility, a project expected to generate thousands of jobs for Somalis and position the nation as a regional leader in space technology.
Turning to energy exploration, the president revealed that seismic studies conducted by a Turkish vessel off Somalia’s coast have yielded promising results. The final findings, he said, will be shared with the government soon.
However, Mohamud highlighted challenges posed by abandoned fishing nets on the seabed, which have hindered exploration efforts. He explained that trawlers discarded these nets after engaging in illegal fishing activities, fearing accountability in the countries where they sell their catch.
Mohamud emphasized the urgent need for a robust navy and strengthened institutions to safeguard Somalia’s marine resources and bolster its blue economy.
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