Somalia’s federal army, backed by African Union peacekeepers, has successfully retaken Bariire strategic town from Al-Qaeda-linked Al-Shabab militants after more than a week of intense fighting.
The joint operation, led by the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) alongside Ugandan troops, marks a significant counteroffensive in the Bas-Shabelle region, approximately 100 km west of Mogadishu.
Bariire Strategic Town Importance
Bariire, home to a major military operational base, fell to Al-Shabab in March after Somali forces withdrew without resistance.
The militants subsequently destroyed a key bridge, disrupting critical military supply lines and tightening their grip on the region.
On August 1, AUSSOM launched an offensive to reclaim Bariire strategic town, which had served as a stronghold for insurgent activities.
Victory After a Week-Long Battle
In an official statement, the Somali Defense Ministry declared Bariire “fully secured” and estimated Al-Shabab losses at over 100 militants.
Federal forces are now carrying out clearance operations in surrounding areas and have seized a large cache of weapons and military equipment.
No details were provided regarding casualties among AUSSOM or Somali government troops.
Al-Shabab’s Recent Gains
Despite the presence of more than 10,000 AUSSOM troops in Somalia, Al-Shabab has regained significant territory since early 2024, reversing many of the military’s previous successes in 2022 and 2023.
In recent months, the group has intensified its attacks:
- In late June, Al-Shabab fighters killed at least seven Ugandan soldiers in Bas-Shabelle.
- In March, the group narrowly missed targeting the convoy of Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
- In April, they launched mortar shells at Mogadishu’s international airport.
Ongoing Security Challenges
The recapture of Bariire strategic town is a notable achievement for Somali and AU forces, but officials caution that the fight against Al-Shabab remains far from over.
The government aims to sustain military pressure on the insurgents while securing liberated areas to prevent the militants’ return.
