"The exact numbers of the government forces are undisclosed, but estimates suggest a force of around 30,000. Additionally, the Macawisley community defense forces fluctuates between 6,000 to 7,000 members. The African Union Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) contributes currently about 14,000 troops, many of whom are engaged in stationary roles.
Furthermore, the Somali National Armed Forces benefit from aerial support provided by international partners, notably the United States, enhancing their operational capabilities against Al-Shabaab.
On the Al-Shabaab side, with an estimated strength of around 14,000 militants at the start of the war, which predominantly operated in central and southern Somalia. However, since the onset of the liberation war, the group has suffered significant losses, with thousands of its fighters killed in battle and many captured. The group often deploys its fighters on missions with little expectation of their return, reflecting the heavy toll on its ranks."
(
https://graphics.goobjoog.com/somalia-war-on-al-shabaab)
Seems like shabaab is purely on hit and run which is a high risk strategy. It's not sustainable for them and with more interest by foreign investors in building bases and training troops they can't keep up. I think once central is fully under control that the fight for Jubbaland will be the true war. It will be a fight on the enemies backyard and the government knows it. That's possibly why they penned the deal with the US for military bases and more special forces trained.
