U.S. Special Operations Commander Meets Jubaland President Ahmed Madobe to Discuss Counterterrorism Cooperation

Kismayo (WDN) — The United States has intensified security engagement with Jubaland after the Commander of U.S. Africa Command’s Special Operations Forces, Major General Claude K. Tudor Jr., held talks with Jubaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Ahmed Madobe).

The meeting focused on strengthening counterterrorism cooperation, accelerating operations against extremist groups in Jubaland, and enhancing security coordination between Jubaland authorities and the United States. Jubaland officials said discussions centered on ongoing efforts to improve security operations in the region, particularly against Al-Shabaab, which continues to maintain a significant presence in parts of southern Somalia.

The talks were also attended by Jubaland Intelligence Director Mohamed Ahmed Sabriye, highlighting the importance of intelligence cooperation and operational coordination in the fight against militant networks. The engagement comes as Jubaland remains a strategically important region in Somalia’s security landscape due to its proximity to Kenya, its long coastline, and its role in ongoing counterterrorism operations.

For Washington, Jubaland has long been a key partner in efforts to disrupt Al-Shabaab’s operational networks, strengthen local security forces, and support regional stability. U.S. military and intelligence cooperation with Somali federal and regional authorities has included training, advisory support, intelligence sharing, and counterterrorism operations.