Burundi National Defence Forces Honoured for Service in Somalia

The event, presided over by ATMIS Sector Five Commander Col. Oscar Hatungimana, recognized the dedication and service of the outgoing Burundi contingent, which has completed a one-year tour of duty.

The Burundi National Defence Forces (BNDF) troops serving with the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) were honoured for their contributions to peace and security in Somalia during a ceremony held at the Jowhar Airfield Base in Hirshabelle State on Saturday. The event, presided over by ATMIS Sector Five Commander Col. Oscar Hatungimana, recognized the dedication and service of the outgoing Burundi contingent, which has completed a one-year tour of duty.

The ceremony was attended by senior officials, including United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) Regional Administrative Officer Gagan Banjara and other high-ranking ATMIS and UN representatives. The troops were commended for their efforts in joint operations with Somali security forces to combat Al-Shabaab and secure key areas and Main Supply Routes (MSRs) in the Middle Shabelle region.

Col. Hatungimana praised the troops for their bravery, discipline, and exemplary service. "These officers have served with courage and discharged their duties diligently. I commend them for their bravery, discipline, and exemplary service to ATMIS and the people of Somalia," he stated.

He also welcomed the newly rotated troops, encouraging them to uphold the legacy of their predecessors. "We welcome those taking over and urge them to be diligent. You have the responsibility of supporting Somali security forces to effectively take over full security responsibility for their country," Col. Hatungimana added.

Gagan Banjara, representing the UN, lauded the outgoing Burundi troops for their significant contributions to peace support operations and the security of humanitarian efforts. "ATMIS Burundi troops have done a commendable job in their Area of Responsibility (AoR). We applaud them for their courage, dedication, and professionalism exhibited in discharging their duties in this region. The UN country team is grateful to them and their leadership for the good work done in supporting UN agencies and other humanitarian organisations," said Banjara.

The outgoing BNDF troops had been deployed to Somalia since May 2023, where they played a crucial role in enhancing security and stability in the region.