KDF General visits troops in Somalia

KISMAYO, Somalia - The Deputy Army Commander of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) visited troops serving under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) as part of the routine motivation trip which also serves as an encouragement to infantry soldiers.

Major General Mohamed Nur Hassan acknowledged the troops’ contribution to peace, security, and stability in Somalia over the past decade. This period has witnessed the liberation of critical localities and the resumption of socio-economic activities.

In his speech, he commended the KDF troops for their professionalism, commitment, integrity, and discipline, qualities that have fostered positive relations with other stakeholders in the mission area.

“For over a decade, KDF has demonstrated outstanding dedication to fostering peace and stability in Somalia. The citizenry can go about their lives uninterrupted as you, alongside other stakeholders, have continually degraded the terrorist threat posed by Al Shabaab,” he stated.

Nur Hassan also conveyed a goodwill message from the Chief of the Defence Forces, General Kahariri, and the Commander Kenya Army, Lieutenant General Tarus, ahead of the festive season.

He urged the troops to remain proactive by conducting offensive patrols, ensuring a seamless transition from ATMIS to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) in January 2025, KDF reports.

Maj Gen Hassan reaffirmed KDF’s commitment to supporting a Somali-led peace process, emphasizing that a peaceful Somalia is critical to the stability of East Africa and the Horn of Africa regions.

The primary mandate of ATMIS has been to implement the Somali Transition Plan (STP)—a comprehensive guide developed by the Federal Government of Somalia and its partners to facilitate the transfer of security responsibilities to the Somali National Security Forces (SNSF).

In contrast, AUSSOM will focus on protecting civilians and critical infrastructure under the immediate threat of physical violence. Kenya shall take part in the new mission dubbed the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

GAROWE ONLINE