Somalia’s federal government has recruited over 2,000 troops in Gedo following last month’s deadly clashes in Balad Hawo.
New federal recruits helped expel Jubbaland forces from Balad Hawo on July 30 and Tulo Amin on August 11, security sources told local media.
The new troops include clan militias, intelligence officers, and defectors from Jubbaland whose commanders agreed to join federal ranks.
Federal troops now number about 500 in Balad Hawo alone, with training ongoing at the UK military base east of the town.
Gedo intelligence chief Abdirashid Janan is overseeing recruitment, supported by federal officers and security personnel from surrounding districts.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud urged Jubbaland forces in Kenya to return, promising safety and no retaliation for those complying with his call.
Jubbaland fighters crossed into Kenya’s Mandera town after losing ground to federal forces in Balad Hawo earlier this month.
Authorities say integration is complete in Garbaharey and Burdhubo, and registration has begun in Luuq, Bardere, and Elwak towns.
Gedo’s current federal-aligned force exceeds 2,000, including many former Jubbaland fighters under General Cabaas Ibrahim Gurey, who remains publicly silent.
Some district officials, such as Elwak’s mayor, are cooperating, while others like Doolow’s administrator reject federal authority and back Jubbaland.
Federal officials have spent heavily lobbying local leaders and elders to weaken support for President Ahmed Madobe of Jubaland.
The federal government aims for full control of Gedo due to the 2025 presidential election and future national polls.
In 2023, the federal government reintegrated Gedo into Jubbaland after years of direct federal rule due to electoral disputes.
President Mohamud and his premier Hamza Barre declared Madobe’s re-election in 2024 as Jubbaland President illegitimate, calling him as a former regional leader.
