PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate release)
AUSSOM PR/04/2026
The Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) and Head of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), Ambassador El Hadji Ibrahima Diene, has congratulated Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) and AUSSOM troops for successfully liberating Daarusalaam and Mubarak in Lower Shabelle region.
The joint operation, conducted with international partners, resulted in the full capture and securing of two strategic locations, which had long served as strongholds and safe havens for Al-Shabaab terrorists.
Ambassador Diene commended the courage, professionalism and sacrifice demonstrated by Somali and AUSSOM forces during the operation. “This achievement reflects the growing capability, determination and professionalism of Somali security forces, alongside with AUSSOM troops both supported by international partners. The liberation of Daarusalaam and Mubarak sends a clear message that terrorist strongholds will not endure in the face of our unified and sustained action,” said Ambassador Diene.
Conducted under Operation Rolling Thunder as part of the broader Operation Badr during the holy month of Ramadan, the offensive aims to dismantle key Al-Shabaab strongholds, cut off routes used for terrorist activities, weaken Al-Shabaab’s operational capacity, and protect civilians and key strategic sectors.
The SRCC emphasised that these operational successes demonstrate enhanced operational planning, coordination and strong partnership between Somalia and the African Union in advancing the shared objective of restoring peace, security stability, and state authority across the entire country.
He further reaffirmed AUSSOM’s unwavering commitment to supporting Somalia’s stabilisation efforts. “AUSSOM remains steadfast in its mandate to support the Federal Government of Somalia in defeating Al-Shabab, protecting Somali people, extending state authority, and advancing Somali-led peace and stability. Together, we will continue to intensify operations to eliminate all remaining terrorist sanctuaries,” said Ambassador Diene.
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