The Federal Government of Somalia says it is preparing to launch what it describes as the final phase of its military campaign against Al-Shabaab, as senior defence and military officials signal a major escalation in operations against the group.

Speaking to Somali National Army troops in Ceeldheer district, the army chief, Brigadier General Ibrahim Mohamed Mohamud, said extensive preparations had been underway in recent weeks for a renewed offensive.

He said Al-Shabaab was entering its “final days” and urged government forces to be mentally and morally prepared for the next stage of the campaign.

“Preparations have been ongoing in recent days. The terrorists are in their final moments, and every soldier is required to prepare himself mentally,” Brig. Gen. Mohamud said.

Defence Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi also confirmed that the government had developed a new military plan, which he described as stronger than previous phases of the war.

“There is a stronger level of preparation than before. The number of troops has doubled, and morale is higher than ever,” Fiqi said.

The latest remarks follow President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s July 1 address, in which he said the government would soon launch a decisive military campaign aimed at removing Al-Shabaab from the country.

“The Somali government will launch a final military campaign to remove the Khawarij from the country. We will soon share this plan with the Somali people,” the president said.

The government has not yet announced when the new offensive will formally begin. It also remains unclear what effect the planned operation will have on Somalia’s long-running conflict with Al-Shabaab, which continues to pose a major security challenge across parts of the country.