Brigadier General Ivan Falasca Takes Over Command of EUTM-S in Somalia

MOGADISHU – Major General Ivan FALASCA has officially taken over the leadership of EUTM-S, succeeding Major General Elio MANES, at a change of command ceremony held in Mogadishu.

The ceremony was chaired by the Director of Planning and Implementation of Military Operations of the EU, Major General Michiel van der LAAN. It was also attended by the Commander of the Somali National Army, Major General Ibrahim Mohamed Mohamud, ambassadors, heads of diplomatic missions, civilian and military officials from Somalia, representatives from international organizations, and international partners.

During the ceremony, Major General MANES was awarded the CSDP Medal. During his tenure, EUTM-S strengthened its work in the areas of Advisory, Training, and Mentoring. The operation provided 18 courses and seminars on security, healthcare, information technology, engineering, and maritime security, with participation from Somali forces and AUSSOM, in collaboration with international partners.

The operation also resumed activities at the Training Area after resolving issues related to operational costs. Between January and September 2026, EUTM-S coordinated and supported 11 training events, which involved 626 participants. These trainings included Basic Leadership Courses, C-IED, and live ammunition training, as well as courses on logistics, fuel management, and information technology.

Speaking during his tenure, SG MANES emphasized the importance of trust, cooperation, and Somali ownership:

“I take pride in what we have achieved together. But I take even more pride in the relationships we have built: relationships based on trust, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to contributing to the future of Somalia.”

As SG FALASCA has now taken the lead, EUTM-S continues its efforts to strengthen security institutions, through advising, guiding, and training, while also promoting Somali ownership and sustainable development of national capabilities.