President Hassan Sheikh’s Official Visit to Türkiye Amid Escalating

Date: March 27, 2025
Classification: Confidential
Prepared by: NISA Officer

Executive Summary

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has embarked on an official working visit to Türkiye following an invitation from President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The visit is officially framed as a step to strengthen bilateral ties, particularly in security and military cooperation. However, the underlying motivation is Somalia’s deteriorating security situation, marked by Al-Shabaab’s growing strength and the President’s increasing struggle to rally domestic and international support.

Key Developments:

1. Al-Shabaab’s Growing Influence

Despite ongoing military campaigns, Al-Shabaab has expanded its operational capabilities, increasing attacks on government forces and strategic locations.

Intelligence reports indicate that the group is adapting its tactics, leveraging clan dynamics, and exploiting weaknesses in government-controlled areas.

The group continues to benefit from financial networks and external sympathizers, undermining state efforts to disrupt its operations.

2. Lack of Effective Support:

President Hassan Sheikh’s repeated calls for international assistance, particularly in military aid and counterterrorism operations, have not yielded the expected results.

Key allies, including the African Union and Western partners, have been reluctant to escalate their involvement, citing concerns over government effectiveness and corruption.

Internal political fragmentation has further weakened government initiatives. Opposition leaders remain divided, with some openly criticizing the administration’s handling of security matters.

3. Türkiye’s Role and Strategic Importance

Türkiye remains one of Somalia’s closest security partners, providing military training, equipment, and financial support.

The Somali government seeks additional assistance, including direct military engagement and intelligence-sharing capabilities.

Talks are expected to cover increased Turkish support for counterterrorism operations, including possible deployment of advanced military assets.

Risks & Implications:

Escalating Insecurity: Without a significant shift in strategy or increased external support, Somalia risks further destabilization.

Political Crisis: The President’s inability to unite opposition leaders or secure greater military backing could erode his legitimacy.

Turkish Leverage: Increased dependence on Türkiye could lead to greater Turkish influence in Somalia’s domestic and security affairs, with potential geopolitical ramifications.

Conclusion & Recommendations:

Urgent Need for Coordinated International Support: The Somali government must intensify diplomatic efforts to secure more substantial military aid.

Political Reconciliation Efforts: Engaging opposition leaders in a unified security framework could strengthen internal stability.

Counterinsurgency Strategy Review: A reassessment of current military tactics and intelligence-sharing mechanisms is crucial to counter Al-Shabaab’s evolving strategies.

This report is intended for senior policymakers and security officials. Further intelligence updates will be provided as the situation develops.

End of Report.