Mohamed Gabobe shares the harrowing journey of a Somali soldier who faced unimaginable hardships during his training in Eritrea and subsequent battles against al-Shabab. Through the eyes of this whistleblower, this piece provides insight into the brutal realities of Somalia’s ongoing conflict, the disillusionment of soldiers, and the traumas they face.
Upon entering the training camp in Gergera, the Somali cadets were each given a piece of bread and soup, then herded inside. What followed was 18 months of harsh, nonstop military training.
A few onlookers glanced our way as they trekked past us, maybe wondering why this young man was crying profusely or why I kept patting him on the back. Some memories, no matter how difficult, stay with you forever and Hersi is living proof. He composed himself and continued.