.... For God and My Country....
On Saturday, ATMIS UPDF Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team, in collaboration with The Development Initiative (TDI), neutralized unexploded ordnances in Aribiska, Afgooye District.
The operation, led by Colonel Bernard Kashemeza, Commander of Battle Group XXXIX, was to protect civilians from the dangers of unexploded ordnances & misfired munitions left behind by Al-Shabaab militants.
ATMIS remains committed to safeguarding civilians through its Route Search & EOD teams, reducing the risks posed by munitions.
ASSAULT IN GALGADUUD
Armed militants carried out another assault in parts of Galgaduud, killing civilian herders. The attack occurred in the Baalal-dheer village under Cadakibir district, with the perpetrators fleeing the scene. Two men, both residents of Cadaado town, were killed in the assault
PRESIDENT ERGOGAN HOLD A PHONE TALK WITH ETHIOPIAN PRIME MINISTER
President Erdogan has held a phone discussion with Ethiopian Prime Minister AbiyAhmedAli, highlighting that Ethiopia must address Somalia’s concerns over unity, sovereignty, & territorial integrity to advance the mediation process, according to a statement.
FIRE GUTS A CLOTHING MARKET IN JOWAHAR.
A huge blaze has erupted at the biggest clothing market in jowhar , the capital of Somalia's Hirshabelle state. Initial reports indicate the fire may have been sparked by an electrical fault, but the exact cause remains unclear.
ALCOHOL AND OTHER THINGS CAUGHT BEING SMAUGGLED.
Security forces in Galkayo have seized a large haul of alcohol and other illegal substances that were being smuggled into the town. Authorities are investigating the source and intended distribution of the confiscated contraband.
SOMALI OFFICIAL ARRIVE IN TURKEY FOR TALKS WITH ETHIOPIA.
Somali officials landed in Türkiye on Sunday, poised to engage in high-stakes negotiations aimed at de-escalating a significant diplomatic conflict that has heightened tensions across the Horn of Africa. The central issue? A controversial port access agreement involving Somaliland, the breakaway region of Somalia that remains a source of contention for the federal government in Mogadishu.
The second round of negotiations, set to commence Monday in Ankara, represents a critical juncture in Türkiye’s ongoing efforts to mediate the dispute. The friction stems from Ethiopia’s recent agreement to a 50-year lease on 20 kilometers of Somaliland’s coastline, including the strategically important Berbera port.
This deal, finalized in January, has ignited a fierce backlash from Somalia, which views Somaliland as an integral part of its territory and is alarmed by Ethiopia’s tacit recognition of Somaliland’s de facto independence.
In a phone call on Saturday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan emphasized Türkiye’s commitment to easing the tensions. Erdogan urged Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to take measures that would address Somalia’s concerns, asserting that such steps could significantly advance the mediation efforts.
Türkiye has publicly committed to ensuring Somali unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity throughout this process.
Türkiye, which has strategically positioned itself as a key mediator in the Horn of Africa, is leveraging its diplomatic clout to navigate this complex situation. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, who successfully orchestrated the initial round of talks in Ankara last month, will lead the discussions with a focus on constructive dialogue.
“Constructive dialogue is the only path forward,” Fidan stated, underscoring his commitment to resolving the crisis.
The Somali government’s reaction to the Ethiopia-Somaliland memorandum was immediate and severe. Somalia expelled the Ethiopian ambassador and recalled its envoy from Addis Ababa, signaling its strong opposition to the deal. Concurrently, Somalia launched an aggressive diplomatic campaign, seeking support from the African Union, the Arab League, and influential allies such as Egypt.
Somaliland, which declared its independence from Somalia in 1991, has operated as a de facto state with limited international recognition. Ethiopia’s move to engage with Somaliland represents a significant shift that threatens to disrupt the region’s fragile equilibrium.
Türkiye’s involvement is particularly notable given its expanding influence in both Somalia and Ethiopia. Since President Erdogan’s historic visit to Mogadishu in 2011, Türkiye has become deeply entrenched in Somali affairs, providing aid, infrastructure development, and establishing its largest overseas military base in the Somali capital.
Earlier this year, Türkiye and Somalia solidified their partnership with a maritime and defense pact, further intensifying the stakes in the ongoing negotiations.
Türkiye’s dual engagement in the region, with strong trade and defense ties with Ethiopia alongside its extensive involvement with Somalia, positions it uniquely as an influential mediator capable of balancing interests from both sides.
The military dynamics in the region further complicate the situation. Recent Ethiopian troop movements in Somalia have exacerbated tensions, prompting Mogadishu to demand the immediate withdrawal of Ethiopian forces.
Somalia has delayed the planned reduction of African Union troops under the ATMIS mandate and has expressed its preference for contributions from Egypt and Djibouti to the new African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), rather than Ethiopian troops.
UNMAS' Fran O'Grady met ONS Somalias Natioal Security Adviser XuseenMacallin and discussed cooperation to enhance Somali Security Forces' capacity in explosive ordnance disposal, counter IED measures and more - UNMAS is committed to supporting FGS efforts to making Somalia free from explosive hazards.
Public transport vehicles and goods transport vehicles have not been circulating on the Beni-Kanyabayonga road (North Kivu) for almost two months.
According to security sources, this situation is due to the occupation of the Rutshuru territory by the M23 rebels.
This situation has seriously disrupted the functioning of several transport agencies in Beni.
At the parking lot of the Association of Drivers of Congo (ACCO), on the Beni-Kasindi axis, the atmosphere is gloomy following the significant drop in the number of customers.
" Now, I no longer go to the Beni-Goma axis following the war that prevails in the region. What blocks us more is the M23 which is at the root of the traffic stoppage on this road axis of Goma. Since then, we drivers who served this axis have suffered a lot. It is no longer like before when I went to this axis of Goma ", explained Claude Kishokero, one of the drivers of this region.
To deal with this situation, most of these drivers who served the Beni-Kanyabayonga axis have redirected to the Beni-Kasindi axis.
This situation creates tensions between them due to the competition to attract passengers.
" Most of us drivers concentrate on the single axis and the number of passengers is reduced. We sometimes fight over passengers. Drivers on the Beni-Goma, Beni and Beni-Bunia axes are forced to come and join us to find ways to support their families on the single axis of Kasingi, the only route open these days ," Jean-Romain Moyindo, in charge of alignment within the ACCO in Beni.
Iran’s Acting Foreign Minister, Ali Bagheri Kani, announced on Thursday that Iran is ready to strengthen its relationships with African countries, with a special focus on Somalia.
His comments were made during a meeting with Somalia’s Foreign Minister, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, at the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) summit in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Bagheri Kani emphasized that Iran sees great potential in building stronger ties with African nations, including Somalia. He highlighted the importance of unity among Islamic nations to protect their common interests and stand against external threats.
Somalia’s Foreign Minister Fiqi welcomed the renewed dialogue, praising Iran for its support of Palestine and acknowledging Iran’s help in Somalia’s fight against terrorism, especially against the Al-Shabaab insurgency.
The relationship between Iran and Somalia hasn’t always been smooth. In 2014, there was hope that the two countries might grow closer, but by 2016, Somalia broke off diplomatic ties with Iran, accusing it of interfering in its internal affairs.
This move aligned Somalia more closely with Saudi Arabia, which gave Somalia a $50 million aid package on the same day it cut ties with Iran.
In 2024, however, signs of reconciliation have emerged. In March, Somalia released 33 Iranian fishermen detained for illegal fishing in Somali waters, seen as a gesture of goodwill towards Tehran.
Later, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud sent condolences to Iran after the death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash, further signalling a potential shift in relations.
Iran’s outreach to Somalia is part of a larger strategy to expand its influence in Africa. The continent is becoming an increasingly important battleground for geopolitical influence, with Iran looking to build new alliances while navigating complex local politics.
On Saturday, Somali Army Chief Gen. Ibrahim Sheikh Muhiyidin and Land Forces Commander Gen. Dayah Abdulle visited the construction site of the new Land Forces headquarters in Mogadishu , underscoring ongoing efforts to strengthen military infrastructures.
President Museveni has appointed Maj Gen Abel Kandiho as Senior Presidential advisor on Classified Operations.
09.08.2024 EEAS Press Team
The military justice system in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) sentenced 26 individuals to death on August 8 for “war crimes,” “participation in an insurrectional movement,” and “treason.” On the same day, the Kinshasa-Gombe High Court sentenced to death six members of the Force du progrès, a group affiliated with the Union pour la Démocratie et le Progrès Social party, for, among other things, “criminal association” and “attempted murder.”
The EU reiterates its commitment to the need to guarantee the right to a fair trial and respect for the rights of the accused, in line with the international law obligations to which the DRC has subscribed.
The EU also reiterates its total opposition to the death penalty, in all circumstances. The death penalty is incompatible with the inalienable right to life and is cruel, inhuman and degrading. It represents the ultimate denial of human dignity, fails to deter criminal acts and makes miscarriages of justice irreversible. We have strongly expressed this in these terms with all relevant interlocutors in the DRC, including recently in meetings with various members of the Government and senior officials in Kinshasa.
The EU expresses its deep concerns about this decline in the rule of law, particularly if executions were to be carried out in a country which had until now chosen to maintain a moratorium on the death penalty.
Weekly Counter-Terrorism Intelligence Brief for East and Central Africa (Somalia, Mozambique, and DR-Congo): Tracking Islamic State Terrorists for the period of 1st August- 9th August 2024
Executive Summary
Mozambique: On August 1st, 2024, Islamic State Mozambique (ISM) militants engaged in two significant clashes: one with local security forces in the Darumba area of Macomia district and another with Rwandan Naval Forces in the Crimize region, also in Macomia district. This escalation highlights ISM’s ongoing threat, despite previous gains by international forces. The resurgence of ISM, following the withdrawal of Southern African Development Community (SADC) forces, suggests a well-coordinated effort to regain control in Cabo Delgado, leveraging strategic shifts in tactics and local influence.
Somalia: On August 5th, 2024, Puntland security forces arrested two Islamic State Somalia (ISS) militants in Bosaso City and recovered weapons, underscoring the persistent threat posed by ISS in the region. The operations in Puntland, a strategically vital area, reflect a complex security landscape where local and transnational militant activities intertwine. The competition between Al-Shabaab and ISS, compounded by external influences like weapon transfers from the Houthis, exacerbates the security challenges in Somalia’s Bari region.
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): From August 1st to 6th, 2024, the Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP) escalated its campaign of terror in North Kivu and Ituri provinces. The attacks resulted in numerous casualties, including targeted assaults against civilians and Christians. The sighting of ISCAP leader Musa Baluku in Oicha city indicates a high level of operational control and suggests that the group’s recent violence is part of a broader, coordinated campaign. The increasing brutality, including public executions and widespread destruction, has triggered calls for more effective responses from both Congolese and international authorities, yet these demands have largely gone unmet.
Peace Unity-2024 Military Drills: China and Tanzania are conducting joint military exercises, “Peace Unity-2024,” in Mapinga, Tanzania. These drills focus on enhancing maritime security and counter-terrorism operations, with a significant naval component involving Chinese and Tanzanian vessels. The exercises aim to strengthen regional security and deepen military cooperation between the two nations, potentially contributing to broader stability in East Africa.
Mozambique
1st Aug- ISM militants clashed with security forces in Darumba area in Macomia district in Cabo Delgado.
1st Aug- Militants clashed with Rwandan Naval Forces in Crimize region in Macomia district.
SOMALIA
05th Aug– Security forces in Puntland arrested Two Islamic State Somalia (ISS) and recovered weapons in Bosaso City.
D.R. CONGO
6th Aug- ISCAP militants led an armed assault against Civilians in Minamaimbu area in Lubero region.
5th Aug- Congolese militais forces clashed with ISCAP terrorists in Bandulu area in Lubero region.
5th Aug- ISCAP militants attacked Christians in Itembo area in Lubero region in North Kivu.
4th Aug- ISCAP militants led an armed assault against Congolese Army and Militia forces in Bandulu area in Lubero Region.
2nd Aug- ISCAP militants clashed with Congolese and Uganda armed forces in Mumbe area in Beni region.
1st Aug- ISCAP terrorists captured and executed two Christians in Idohu region of Ituri province.
Analysis, Observation & Insights
DRC
Sighting of Musa Baluku
In a recent attack by ISCAP, eye witnesses reported seeing the de facto leader of ISCAP, Musa Baluku who was present during some of the attacks in Oicha city. The presence of Musa Baluku indicates a high level of operational control and coordination within the ISCAP in this region. Leaders like Baluku are often involved in strategic planning, logistics, and execution of high-profile attacks, suggesting that the recent surge in violence might be part of a broader, well-coordinated campaign by ISCAP. His involvement on the ground might encourage more aggressive actions from the rebels, signaling to his followers that he is directly involved and committed to their cause.
Increased Threat Level: The sighting of Baluku raises the immediate threat level in the region. His presence could indicate plans for further escalations in violence, potentially targeting civilians and state actors alike. This could lead to a more concerted response from the Congolese government and possibly international forces, though such a response may provoke retaliatory actions from the ISCAP.
Escalating attacks
The provinces of North Kivu and Ituri in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have witnessed a sharp escalation in violence over the past two months, as attacks by ISCAP have intensified. In the past two months ISCAP has unleashed a wave of terror across these regions, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake. Civilians have borne the brunt of this brutality, with at least 500 people, including women and children, savagely murdered. The ISCAP’s tactics have been particularly gruesome, involving the slitting of throats and the torching of homes, vehicles, and other civilian property.
The territories of Beni, Lubero in North Kivu, and Irumu and Mambasa in Ituri have been especially hard-hit by these attacks. Despite the state of siege declared in these areas, the response from both national and international authorities has been widely criticized as inadequate. The New Congolese Civil Society (NSSC), a prominent civic organization, has condemned the ongoing slaughter and expressed deep frustration over the lack of effective action to protect the population.
This situation presents a dire humanitarian crisis, with the lives of countless civilians hanging in the balance. The NSSC’s demands for stronger action, both domestically and internationally, highlight the urgent need for a coordinated and robust response to address the escalating violence in North Kivu and Ituri. Without such intervention, the cycle of violence and suffering is likely to continue, deepening the already devastating impact on the region’s long-suffering population.
MOZAMBIQUE
The recent warning from the UN highlights a concerning escalation in the activities and sophistication of the Islamic State’s branch in Mozambique, particularly in the northern Cabo Delgado province. Over the past few months, ISIS-Mozambique has intensified its operations, demonstrating an increased capacity for violence and strategic complexity. This resurgence comes despite the efforts of international forces, including those from Rwanda and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), who had initially made significant gains in pushing back the insurgency between 2021 and 2023.
The group’s resurgence can be attributed to a variety of factors. Notably, the phased withdrawal of international forces, especially from SADC, has left a security vacuum that ISIS-Mozambique has exploited. The militants have adapted their tactics, moving into previously unaffected areas and shifting their approach towards the local population. This includes not only increasing attacks but also attempting to win over civilians by trading goods and adopting a less brutal approach compared to their earlier operations. This strategic shift is part of a broader effort by the group to establish a governance model similar to that of other Islamic State affiliates in regions like Iraq and Syria.
Moreover, the group’s propaganda efforts have ramped up, with the central Islamic State media apparatus paying more attention to Mozambique, reflecting its growing importance in the global jihadist network. The insurgents’ ability to attract foreign fighters and carry out cross-border operations further complicates the security situation, making it a regional threat rather than just a national one.
Peace Unity-2024 military drills
The “Peace Unity-2024” joint military exercises between China and Tanzania are taking place in the eastern port city of Mapinga, Tanzania. The exercises aim to enhance the capabilities of both countries’ troops and deepen mutual trust. The naval component includes China’s comprehensive landing ship Wuzhishan, guided missile destroyer Hefei, and four Tanzanian patrol vessels. The drills focus on safeguarding maritime transportation security, with activities ranging from joint search and rescue to counter-terrorism, counter-piracy, and patrol maneuvers. The land phase features joint combat planning, infiltration, and reconnaissance. Both sides emphasize that these exercises will contribute to regional peace and stability.
SOMALIA
The recent security operations by Puntland forces, specifically the Puntland Maritime Police Force (PMPF) and the Puntland Intelligence Security Agency (PISA), underline the region’s complex security landscape and the escalating threat posed by militant groups such as Al-Shabaab and ISIS. These developments in Bosaso, a key port city in Puntland, are part of a broader struggle to maintain stability in a region that has become increasingly vulnerable to terrorist activities.
Increasing Militant Activity in Bari Region: The Bari region’s mountainous terrain has long been a haven for militants. The presence of both Al-Shabaab and ISIS in this region highlights the competitive yet symbiotic relationship between these groups, which often vie for control over territory and resources but may also cooperate when it benefits their strategic goals. The capture of weapons and arrests of suspects indicate ongoing attempts by these groups to fortify their positions and expand their operational capabilities.
Regional and International Implications: The link between local militants and external actors, such as the Houthi rebels, is particularly concerning. The potential for weapons transfers from the Houthis to Al-Shabaab and ISIS not only underscores the transnational nature of these threats but also suggests that regional conflicts, like the war in Yemen, are having a direct impact on Somalia’s security situation. This could lead to an influx of more sophisticated weapons and tactics into Puntland, escalating the conflict.
The ongoing security operations in Puntland are a critical component of the broader fight against terrorism in Somalia. While these efforts are yielding results, they also reveal the complexity and scale of the challenge. The region’s strategic importance, the entrenched presence of militant groups, and the potential for external influences all contribute to a volatile security environment that requires sustained attention and international cooperation. The Puntland authorities must continue to enhance their intelligence and operational capabilities, while also addressing the root causes of militancy, such as poverty, unemployment, and political disenfranchisement, to achieve long-term stability.
CONCLUSION
The recent surge in militant activities across Mozambique, Somalia, and the DRC signifies a worrying escalation in violence and the increasing sophistication of terrorist groups like ISM, ISS, and ISCAP. These groups are exploiting regional vulnerabilities, such as the withdrawal of international forces in Mozambique and the complex geopolitical landscape in Somalia and the DRC.
The sighting of ISCAP’s leader Musa Baluku in the DRC, alongside coordinated attacks, underscores the potential for further violence and the urgent need for a more robust and coordinated response from both national governments and international stakeholders. The Peace Unity-2024 drills between China and Tanzania offer a glimpse of the type of international cooperation needed to combat these threats, though broader and more sustained efforts will be essential to achieve long-term stability in these conflict-ridden regions.
: Abdihakim, a police officer, was among those killed in the Alshabaab explosion at General Kaahiye Police Academy in Mogadishu. Alshabaab...
