Turkish-Somali collaboration intensifies against al-Shabab extremism

The Turkish online newspaper Daily Sabah features an opinion piece that explores the deepening alliance between Somalia and Türkiye, focusing on their joint efforts to confront the al-Shabab insurgency.

It highlights Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's recent diplomatic visit to Türkiye, where discussions centred on enhancing bilateral security cooperation, bolstering maritime security capabilities, and strengthening law enforcement measures.

A pivotal development in this collaboration is the memorandum of understanding signed in February 2024, which designates Türkiye as Somalia's primary partner in maritime security and law enforcement for the next decade. This agreement underscores Türkiye's commitment to supporting Somalia's security sector, particularly significant as the country prepares for the withdrawal of African Union peacekeeping forces by the end of 2024.

The article delves into the origins and evolution of al-Shabab, tracing its roots back to the splintering of the Islamic Courts Union in 2006 and its subsequent affiliation with al-Qaeda by 2012. It highlights the group's tactics of violence, including recent attacks such as the prolonged siege on Mogadishu's SYL hotel and the targeted killing of Turkish aid worker Abdurrahim Yörük. These incidents illustrate al-Shabab's ongoing threat to stability and civilian lives in Somalia.

Despite Somalia's progress in military operations against al-Shabab, facilitated in part by training programs at facilities like Camp TURKSOM and support from international allies such as the United States, challenges remain. The article underscores the critical juncture Somalia faces with the imminent withdrawal of AMISOM forces, emphasizing the need for sustained international support in enhancing military capabilities, including advanced drone technology for intelligence gathering and counter-terrorism operations.

Overall, the article portrays Türkiye as a crucial partner in Somalia's efforts to build state institutions, combat terrorism, and promote regional stability in the Horn of Africa. It emphasizes the importance of continued collaboration between the two nations to consolidate security gains and mitigate the ongoing threats posed by al-Shabab in Somalia and beyond.