BAIDOA, Somalia – The president of Somalia’s South West State, Abdiasis Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen, on Saturday officially closed a training program for units of the regional Darwish forces aimed at strengthening security across the administration’s areas.
The forces, who completed weeks of training, received instruction in key security skills including maintaining public safety, countering destabilizing activities, and supporting government operations, officials said.
Addressing the ceremony, Laftagareen praised the troops for their dedication and urged them to carry out their duties with integrity and professionalism, particularly in confronting elements opposed to the authority of South West State.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to enhancing both the capacity and size of its security forces to ensure lasting peace and broader development in the region.
The president also thanked African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia and the government of Ethiopia for their role in training and supporting the forces.
Laftagareen further expressed gratitude to ministers, security officials and the people of South West State for their continued support to the armed forces, stressing the importance of cooperation between communities and security institutions.
The development comes amid ongoing armed movements in the Bay Region, underscoring the fragile security situation in the area.
