Sunday 09, June 2024 {HMC} National Security Adviser Hussein Sheikh Ali disclosed that Al-Shabaab leaders, who were ready to surrender, managed to escape due to the government’s failure during the Cowswayne conflict.

In an interview, Ali revealed that a few days before the Cowswayne battle, Al-Shabaab leaders had contacted the government, expressing their willingness to surrender. He emphasized that the situation changed drastically when the battle ensued, leading to significant losses for government forces.

“In the weeks leading up to Cowswayne, we received information that senior Al-Shabaab leaders were reaching out to the government to discuss surrender. Unfortunately, military mistakes happened,” Ali said.

The national security adviser also highlighted that the opportunity for Al-Shabaab to surrender is still near, using the Somali term “Ibihiya.” However, he pointed out that some politicians are against the defeat of Al-Shabaab, fearing it might threaten their political interests.

“It is unfortunate that some Somali people believe that weakening Al-Shabaab would endanger their political interests,” Ali said.

Sunday 09, June 2024 {HMC} The leaders of the breakaway Somaliland Republic, President Muse Bihi Abdi and Military Commander Nuh Ismail Tani, inspected newly acquired planes for the first time on Saturday.

The presidency announced that these planes would be used to train pilots at the Somaliland Pilot Training School, emphasizing the importance of advancing local aviation capabilities. “The president inspected new planes that will be owned by the Republic of Somaliland for the first time. These planes will be used to train technicians and civil pilots within the country,” the statement said.””
The Somaliland Civil Aviation and Airports Authority (SLCAAA) added, “We have brought 4 aircraft to the SL Aviation Training Center, which will train future pilots from Somaliland to work for the benefit of the people and the country.”

In an effort to boost the country’s aviation expertise, the government has enlisted international pilot trainers. According to the official statement, these trainers are set to produce professional pilots over the next two years.

Additionally, President Bihi visited the General Command of the Somaliland Military Forces in Hargeisa, further underlining his administration’s commitment to strengthening Somaliland’s military and aviation infrastructure.

The acquisition of these planes and the establishment of the Somaliland Aviation Institute are major steps in the region’s aviation development.