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On Tuesday, General Charles Kahariri, the Chief of the Defence Forces (CDF), visited Kenyan Defence Forces (KDF) soldiers deployed under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) in Sector Two, ahead of planned changes to the mission.
During his visit, Gen Kahariri met with troops stationed in Dhobley and Kismayu, commending their dedication to peace, security, and stability in Somalia. He praised their professionalism, discipline, and integrity, noting that these qualities have been essential for mission success and regional stability.
The CDF emphasized the importance of their role in restoring peace to Somalia, offering hope for the nation’s future. As the mission transitions to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), Gen Kahariri urged the troops to remain vigilant, stressing that “maintaining high standards of alertness is key to defeating enemy operations.”
This visit aimed to prepare the troops for upcoming changes as the African Union’s military presence in Somalia enters a new phase in January. Kenya remains committed to countering the threat of al-Shabaab, according to officials.
Accompanying the CDF were senior officers, including Deputy Sector 2 Commander Col Meshack Kishoyian and Defence Forces Sergeant Major Warrant Officer Class One Bwana Haji Omari.
Last month, Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud visited Nairobi to discuss the future of his country’s security, completing his shuttle diplomacy efforts that had previously taken him to Burundi, Djibouti, and Uganda. This was part of broader discussions on Somalia’s transition from ATMIS to AUSSOM, which is set to begin in January 2025. Mohamud’s diplomatic mission aimed to garner support for Somalia’s stabilization efforts.
Additionally, the talks touched on the evolving geopolitical tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia, particularly following Ethiopia’s recent agreement with Somaliland to access a naval base. President William Ruto played a key role as a mediator, advocating for Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, reinforcing Kenya’s commitment to regional peace.
Earlier, Gen Kahariri visited Wajir Air Base, where he was briefed on regional security by Base Commander Brigadier Stephen Sane and Deputy Brigade Commander Col Gideon Bebora. He addressed officers and personnel, expressing gratitude for their efforts in safeguarding Kenya’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
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