Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) -- U. S. -backed airstrikes and recently expanded ground operations have shifted momentum in Somalia 's long-running war against al-Qaida-linked al-Shabab militant group, the government says, touting successes in the fight such as efforts to reclaim territory from the extremists and the targeting of the group's leadership and bomb-making network.

Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. MOGADISHU, Feb 11 (Reuters) - A 70-year-old passenger on a plane that crashed on the seashore in Somalia's capital described horror and panic on board before the aircraft made a dramatic landing in knee-deep water, with all crew and travellers unharmed.

Opinion editor's note: Strib Voices publishes a mix of guest commentaries online and in print each day. To contribute, click here.

Opinion editor's note: Strib Voices publishes a mix of guest commentaries online and in print each day.