African Union honours police officers in Somalia

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The African Union Mission has honored 26 police component working with the mission in Somalia, following their role towards contributing to ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in the Horn of Africa nation, which has been struggling for the last three decades.

Those officers who were recognized are from Ghana, Kenya, Sierra Leone, and Zambia will return to their home countries after completing one year and three months of service under AMISOM, the mission said in a statement.

The officers implemented the AMISOM Police mandate on training, mentoring, and advising the Somali Police Force and also supported the implementation of the stabilization efforts under the Somalia Transition Plan, which is expected to culminate in the withdrawal of mission forces in 2021 December.

AMISOM awarded medals and certificates to the officers during a ceremony held on Monday in Mogadishu, presided over by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Rex Dundun, the AMISOM Police Chief of Staff.

DCP Dundun hailed the police officers for the dedicated service despite the challenges due to the outbreak of the coronavirus disease

“We acknowledge the hard work that these officers have made to contribute to a better Africa while representing their countries at the highest levels with exemplary conduct,” said Dundun.

Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Timothy Dassah from Ghana, who was one of the recipients said the outgoing AMISOM officers had successfully delivered on their tasks during their tour of duty.

“We worked in different capacities as mentors and advisors and delivered our expertise,” said CSP Dassah.

Police Constable Hussein Adan from Kenya was grateful for the cordial working relationship with the Somali Police Force in Dhobley and Jubaland State where he worked from. He also noted the progress Somalia has made in policing and expressed optimism about future progress.

GAROWE ONLINE