Read on Twitter
Thread on expansion of AS-held towns in southern #Somalia, throughout Farmaajo's presidency (2017-2021). I am using two images for all, so it is easier to see the difference. Let's start with the largest: Saakow in Middle Jubba. It is denser and has expanded in all directions
Next, let us have a look at Jilib, at the de facto capital of AS in #Somalia and rear base for operations into Kenya. Newly erected buildings comprise almost a third of the town. It has seen massive expansion in the past four years.
Xaramka, which is wrongly labelled as Kunya Barrow by the maps. This town connects Lower Shabelle region with Lower Jubba, and sits at their border on the main road. It is a rear base for the Lower Shabelle Jabha.
Looks like Ceelbuur in central #Somalia is not a popular place for AS. Barely any development. And all its pictures look like that. Weird glare.
Likewise, Bu'aale has seen minimal change. Still better than Ceel Buur.
Finally, Jannaale. This town was retaken by AS in March 2017. And govt retook it in 2020. The group has no reason to build and settle here, and it seems the expansion is consistent with normal growth.
