Somalia’s Security Gains: Bariire Recapture and Djibouti Troop Pact Mark New Chapter in Fight Against Al-Shabaab

Somalia’s security landscape witnessed two significant developments in recent weeks, signaling renewed momentum in the country’s long struggle against al-Shabaab and a growing commitment to regional military cooperation.

On August 8, 2025, joint forces from the Somali National Army (SNA) and the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) achieved a major victory in Lower Shabelle. After a week-long, carefully coordinated offensive, government and allied troops recaptured the strategic farming town of Bariire, which had been under militant control for years.

The Bariire Offensive

Bariire, located southwest of Mogadishu, is considered a critical agricultural hub and a gateway for movement between rural Lower Shabelle and the capital. Its position has long been exploited by al-Shabaab for launching attacks and taxing local farmers to fund their operations.

According to official military sources, more than 120 al-Shabaab fighters were killed during the battle. In addition, a large cache of weapons, ammunition, and logistical supplies was seized, cutting off a vital lifeline for the insurgent group in the region. The offensive also aimed to secure key roads, allowing humanitarian aid and commercial goods to reach rural communities that had been isolated by the conflict.

Local residents have welcomed the liberation of the town, though security officials caution that holding territory in Somalia requires sustained patrols, civilian engagement, and coordinated stabilization efforts to prevent militants from regrouping. The government has pledged to work closely with AUSSOM in delivering basic services, rebuilding infrastructure, and fostering trust with the population.

Djibouti-Somalia Troop Agreement

Just days before the Bariire operation, another key security milestone was reached. On July 30, 2025, Somalia and Djibouti signed a formal agreement to deploy additional Djiboutian troops to Somalia.

Djibouti, a longtime contributor to African Union peacekeeping missions, has played a vital role in stabilizing central and northern Somalia. The new deployment aims to bolster joint operations, enhance intelligence sharing, and strengthen the fight against extremist networks across multiple fronts. Officials from both governments emphasized that this move reflects the shared understanding that terrorism in the Horn of Africa is a regional threat requiring collective solutions.

Under the agreement, Djiboutian forces will be stationed in strategic locations, working side-by-side with Somali units to secure liberated areas, protect supply routes, and train local forces. This cooperation is also expected to free up Somali troops for offensives in other volatile regions, particularly Middle Shabelle and parts of Galmudug.

A Turning Point?

While Somalia’s fight against al-Shabaab remains far from over, these two developments. the successful recapture of Bariire and the strengthened military partnership with Djibouti. represent a rare moment of optimism in a conflict often marked by setbacks.

Security experts note that combining military gains with governance reforms, infrastructure investment, and community engagement will be essential to turn battlefield victories into lasting peace. The Somali government, with the support of regional partners, now faces the critical task of consolidating these achievements and preventing militant resurgence.

For now, the people of Lower Shabelle can look forward to a future with greater freedom of movement, safer roads, and a renewed sense that progress against extremism is possible when local and regional forces unite in purpose.