Mogadishu – Somali National Army (SNA) forces, supported by Ugandan troops serving under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), have seized control of the strategic town of Awdheegle in Lower Shabelle region during a coordinated military offensive.
The operation was carried out jointly by the Somali National Army and Ugandan peacekeepers attached to AUSSOM. The Somali Ministry of Defense confirmed the capture in a statement issued Saturday morning.
According to the ministry, the forces entered Awdheegle and launched ongoing security operations to consolidate control. The action is part of “Operation Silent Storm” (Duufaanta Aamusan), a major offensive aimed at clearing Al-Shabaab strongholds across Lower Shabelle under the South West State administration.
The offensive was launched earlier today, October 4, 2025. Reports from the ground indicate that government and allied troops entered Awdheegle in the morning hours.
Awdheegle, located in the fertile Shabelle River valley, is a key agricultural and strategic town in Lower Shabelle. The area has been a long-time Al-Shabaab stronghold, with militants imposing strict control and displacing local populations.
The government says the capture of Awdheegle is part of wider efforts to dismantle Al-Shabaab’s presence in southern Somalia, restore freedom of movement for civilians, and reclaim territories where insurgents have been accused of committing widespread abuses, including burning homes and extorting farmers.
The Somali army advanced into the district with direct backing from Ugandan forces. While officials confirmed the successful entry into the town, they did not disclose details on casualties, either among government troops or Al-Shabaab fighters. The Ministry of Defense noted that security sweeps are underway to stabilize the area and prevent militant counterattacks.
Lower Shabelle remains one of the most hotly contested regions in Somalia due to its fertile farmland, revenue potential, and proximity to the capital, Mogadishu. Al-Shabaab has maintained a heavy presence there for years, using it as a logistical hub to fund operations. Awdheegle, in particular, has changed hands multiple times in recent offensives, highlighting the challenge of sustaining long-term control once international forces reduce their role.
The recapture of Awdheegle marks another symbolic victory for Somali and African Union forces in their ongoing war against Al-Shabaab. Yet, with the militants’ history of retreating and regrouping in rural areas, the true test will be whether the government can hold the town, provide security for its residents, and prevent a resurgence of insurgent influence.
