Kenyan Troops in AUSSOM Strengthen Their Activities in Jubaland

KISMAAYO – The Kenyan Defense Forces (KDF) under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) have been awarded medals of honor by the African Union for their role in supporting peace, security, and stability in Somalia.

The medal presentation ceremony held in Kismaayo was chaired by the Commander of the 2nd Sector of AUSSOM, Major General Edward Banda, speaking on behalf of the AUSSOM Force Commander, Major General Sam Kavuma. The event was attended by the Minister of Security of Jubaland, Major General Yusuf Hussein Osman, and the Head of the United Nations Office in Somalia (UNTMIS), Fernando Tomé.

Major General Banda praised the Kenyan troops for their professionalism, efficiency, and dedication during the 14 months they have been operating in Somalia, stating that their performance has played a significant role in strengthening security and stability in the areas they operate.

The Minister of Security of Jubaland, Yusuf Hussein Osman, thanked the Kenyan troops for their support to the AUSSOM mission and their good relations with the local community, also commending their role in training and capacity building of the Somali Security Forces.

For his part, Fernando Tomé stated that these medals are a fitting recognition of the efforts and sacrifices of the Kenyan troops, noting that their performance has had a visible impact on the security of the city of Kismaayo and the surrounding areas of Jubaland.