MOGADISHU, Somalia — A new unit of Somalia’s U.S.-trained Danab special forces graduated from training Saturday at the Ballidogle airbase in the country’s volatile Lower Shabelle region, military officials said.
The ceremony was attended by the Somali army chief, Odor Yusuf Ragge, who praised the soldiers’ resilience and urged them to serve “with discipline and courage” as they prepare to join the fight against al-Shabaab.
“These men represent the professionalism and loyalty needed to protect Somalia,” the commander told the troops, highlighting their role as a key element in the country’s counterinsurgency operations.
Unlike regular Somali army units, the newly graduated Danab fighters are lightly armed but highly mobile, making them an essential asset in offensive campaigns.
The elite commandos are expected to carry out joint missions with U.S. forces, who continue to provide training, intelligence and air support in Somalia’s war against the Islamist militant group.
The Danab, meaning “lightning” in Somali, were first established with American support in 2014 and have since grown into one of the most effective units battling al-Shabaab across southern Somalia.
Nevertheless, Saturday’s graduation is seen as part of broader efforts to strengthen the Somali National Army as the country prepares for the phased withdrawal of African Union peacekeepers.
