Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-The President of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Monday evening delivered a heartfelt speech during the welcome ceremony for the second batch of troops trained in Eritrea who arrived in Mogadishu to join the government’s efforts against Al-Shabaab.

Speaking at a welcoming event organized for the troop , the president acknowledged the challenges they had faced during their training period.

“We understand the difficult times you’ve endured throughout your extensive training. Now, return home and pass to your families that you’ve been away serving your country and have returned to continue your service. This positive news will restore hope within your families,” President Hassan Sheikh said.

The troops were granted one month of leave to visit their families and spend time with them before their deployment to the fight against Al-Shabaab.

“You’ve dedicated four to five years to serve this nation and liberate it. We’re giving you one month to reunite with your families before resuming your duties. It’s crucial for you to realize that you are here for your government and your people, to protect them from the enemy,” the president added.

President Hassan emphasized the negative impact of terrorists on the country’s progress, which hinders infrastructure development in areas under their control.

“Once we free this nation from the enemy, Al-Shabaab, our lives will change – the lives of our people, our soldiers, and our leaders. Starting this month, before you leave for your homes, the government will ensure that you receive your salaries and wages regularly,” he stated.

“Due to the insecurity, government services such as healthcare, education, water supply, and other developments couldn’t reach the remote areas controlled by Al-Shabaab,” the President noted.

The return of these troops came a week after President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s visit to Eritrean military camps, where Somali soldiers receive training, to assess their situation.

The President’s visit in Eritrea foolowed concerns raised by the parents of thousands of soldiers undergoing training in Eritrea. These parents called on the President to facilitate the return of their children due to poor medical conditions, reports of some deaths during training, and the disappearance of others who had escaped.

The President assured that the government had listened the parents’ pleas and had arranged for the return of these soldiers, who would now serve their country and join the forces combating Al-Shabaab.

“We have fulfilled the promise we made to your parents and promised the commitments we made to you. What remains is the promise you’ve made to your country and the people – to defend them against the enemy. This can be achieved after your return from your homes,” he added.

During his visit to Eritrea, the President acknowledged important Eritrea’s role in training over 10,000 Somali soldiers.

The Federal Government of Somalia has intensified its fight against Al-Shabaab, strengthening its efforts at the regional level by seeking security cooperation with neighbouring countries and the global community.