EU opens new training facilities for Somali army

Somali Armed Forces troops patrol outside a building that was attacked by suspected al-Shabab militants in Mogadishu, capital of Somalia, on Feb. 21, 2023. [Xinhua]

The European Union said on Sunday that it has inaugurated newly constructed facilities at the General Dhagabadan Training Center (GDTC) in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia.

The EU said the training camp, managed by the Somali Armed Forces, is used by EU Training Mission in Somalia (EUTM-S) to train the Somali National Army and Somali Police Force and symbolizes the collective commitment to advancing training and cooperation between the EU and Somalia.

"This event highlights the EU's enduring values and principles, reinforcing its steadfast support for Somalia's security," the EU said in a statement issued in Mogadishu.

EU Ambassador Karin Johansson reiterated the EU's commitment to assisting the Somali government in enhancing security.

The European Peace Facility (EPF), which has also contributed to the construction of the training facility itself, has been providing substantial support to the Somali National Army (SNA), delivering vehicles, trucks, combat equipment, and life-saving materials.

During the event, Somalian Deputy Prime Minister Salah Jama officially inaugurated the shooting ranges, multi-purpose track, and equipment.

The EU has played a significant role for decades in supporting Somalia's security sector and enhancing safety and security for all, committing about 120 million U.S. dollars to support the SNA to date.