Somali Army Liberares Jabad Goudni in Middle Shabelle

In a major breakthrough for the ongoing federal offensive, the Somali National Army (SNA) successfully established full control over the Jabad Goudni (also referred to as Gubad Godni) area in the Middle Shabelle region on Tuesday, January 27, 2026. The operation marks a significant blow to the Al-Qaeda-linked Al-Shabaab militant group, which has long used the strategic territory as a launchpad for regional attacks.

A Coordinated Assault The liberation of Jabad Goudni followed a period of intense military pressure. According to defense officials, the operation was conducted with precision, combining ground maneuvers by elite SNA units with intelligence support. The military reported that the area had been serving as a hideout and planning hub where militants manufactured explosive devices and organized ambushes against civilian and military targets.

Strategic Gains in the Shabelle Region Located in the volatile Middle Shabelle province, Jabad Goudni is a critical junction for controlling movement between central Somalia and the capital, Mogadishu. By securing this outpost, the Somali forces have effectively disrupted Al-Shabaab’s supply lines and restricted their ability to regroup in the southeastern plains.

Ongoing "Combing" Operations Following the seizure of the base, Somali forces initiated large-scale combing operations to clear remaining explosive remnants and track down fleeing militants. The Ministry of Defense confirmed that security forces are now working to stabilize the area and establish permanent outposts to prevent the group from infiltrating back into the local communities.

National Security Context This victory is part of a broader, intensified campaign by the Somali government, supported by international partners, to reclaim territory from insurgents. Over the past several months, the SNA has made consistent gains in central and southern Somalia, emphasizing the government's resolve to dismantle Al-Shabaab’s operational infrastructure before the full transition of security responsibilities to local forces.