US to boost training, aid to African troops in Somalia in wake of al-Shabab bombings

US to boost training, aid for troops in Somalia

WASHINGTON — The U.S. military is looking for ways to expand the training and equipping of African forces to help battle militants in Somalia who claimed responsibility for recent bombings in Uganda.

Army Gen. William “Kip” Ward says the African nations contributing forces in Somalia are still committed to the peacekeeping effort there despite the attacks last week that killed 76 people. The insurgent group al-Shabab is believed responsible for the twin bombings.

Ward says the U.S. hopes to provide more training, equipment, logistical aid and transportation for the African troops in Somalia. He is head of U.S. Africa Command.