ATMIS Reaffirms Commitment to Enhancing Security and Peace in Somalia

“The African Union will never abandon Somalia and its people in their quest for peace and stability,” stated Ambassador Souef during a meeting with local leaders in Dinsoor district, Bay region.

The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has reaffirmed its dedication to restoring peace and security in Somalia. During a recent field visit to Jowhar and Baidoa, the administrative capitals of Hirshabelle and South West States, Ambassador Mohamed El-Amine Souef, Special Representative of the African Union Commission Chairperson (SRCC) for Somalia and Head of ATMIS, alongside Lt. Gen. Sam Kavuma, ATMIS Force Commander, pledged to strengthen the Somali Security Forces' (SSF) capabilities and intensify military operations against Al-Shabaab.

“The African Union will never abandon Somalia and its people in their quest for peace and stability,” stated Ambassador Souef during a meeting with local leaders in Dinsoor district, Bay region. He praised the ATMIS troops for their significant contributions to Somalia's peace and security and encouraged continued collaboration with the SSF.

Lt. Gen. Kavuma emphasized the mission's resolve, stating, “We will conduct offensive operations against Al-Shabaab and ensure there are no more attacks on ATMIS positions.” He also stressed the importance of supporting both the Federal Member States and the Federal Government in building the SSF's capacity to secure the country.

In Baidoa and Jowhar, the SRCC and ATMIS Force Commander met with contingent commanders Col. Oscar Hatungimana of Burundi and Brig. Gen. Besfat Fente Tegegn of Ethiopia. They were briefed on the current security situation and engaged with local authorities, the SSF, and civil society members.

Lt. Gen. Kavuma described the meetings as productive, expressing satisfaction with the readiness of ATMIS troops in their Areas of Responsibility (AoR). “I checked the combat readiness of the troops, and I must say they have really prepared well and have a very cordial relationship with the local population,” he noted.

Osman Moalim Abdi, the Dinsoor District Commissioner, expressed gratitude for ATMIS’ leadership in engaging with the SSF and local community and called for continued consultation meetings. “The meeting was fruitful because we briefed the delegation about the security situation in the district, including our needs, the challenges we face, and the humanitarian situation,” he said.