@addisstandardeng · Post #21278 · 02/02/2026 12:27
#US shifts Al-Shabaab combat operations from #Djibouti to #Kenya? The United States and Kenya have launched a $71 million initiative to upgrade the airfield at #Manda Bay, a facility situated directly adjacent to the #Somali border. While the project focuses on infrastructure in Kenya, analysts view the move as part of a major strategic realignment by US Africa Command (#AFRICOM) to encircle Al-Shabaab threats originating from Somalia, while simultaneously reducing reliance on Djibouti. Countering Threats from Somalia The expansion involves extending the runway to 10,000 feet, allowing the base to support large cargo and military aircraft. This capability is designed to boost refueling options and rapid security responses for operations targeting militants in the Horn of Africa. General Dagvin R.M. Anderson of AFRICOM noted that the project strengthens the security alliance against regional threats.... https://www.ftlsomalia.com/us-shifts-al-shabaab-combat-operations-from-djibouti-to-kenya-somaliland/