President Hassan Sheikh appoints new commander of the Naval Forces

Mogadishu (Caasimada Online) – The President of Somalia, Mr. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, today appointed Major General Mohamed Abdiqadir, known as "Sharif," as the Commander of the Somali Navy, relieving Brigadier General Abdiwahab Abdullahi Omar, who has held the position for a long time.

The newly appointed commander is among the officers with military education and training, having obtained a bachelor's degree from Aden University in Yemen, while he has undergone military training in Eritrea.

Additionally, his education and military experience may serve as a foundation for the heavy responsibility assigned to him.

His appointment is related to leading and enhancing the capabilities of the country's naval forces, which play an important role in protecting Somalia's extensive coastlines and ensuring the security of the country's waters.

This new step comes at a time when Somalia is placing special importance on the rebuilding and strengthening of security institutions, particularly the navy, which has a significant responsibility for safeguarding the country's independence and preventing illegal activities occurring along the Somali coast.

The Somali Navy and Coastal Defense Forces are among the key institutions for the security and independence of the country, and their duties include: Protecting the Somali coasts and waters, preventing illegal fishing, and other unlawful activities.

However, Somalia has a long coastline, which is vital for trade, fishing, maritime traffic, and natural resources.