A national funeral has been held for two senior Somali military officers killed during fighting on the outskirts of Baidoa, officials said.
The officers, who commanded the 8th and 9th Brigades of the Somali National Army, were killed in a battle that took place on Thursday near the city, according to authorities.
The funeral ceremony was attended by the Speaker of the House of the People of the Federal Government of Somalia, Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur, alongside senior federal and regional officials, military commanders, lawmakers and members of the public.
Among those present was the interim leader of South West State, Jibril Abdirashid Haji, who paid tribute to the fallen officers and described them as national heroes.
Speaking during the ceremony, Mr Haji said the commanders had sacrificed their lives in defence of civilians and in efforts to maintain security in the region.
He praised the continued operations of Somali security forces against what he described as anti-peace groups, and called on residents to support efforts aimed at restoring long-term peace and stability.
Prayers were offered for the deceased officers, with leaders expressing condolences to their families, relatives and the wider Somali public.
The funeral was also attended by ministers and members of parliament from the federal government, officials from the South West State administration, officers from the armed forces, intellectuals and representatives from different sectors of society.
