Mogadishu, 2 March 2024 – In his visit to the Force Headquarters of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), the Deputy Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (DSRCC) for Somalia, Sivuyile Thandikhaya Bam, commended the African Union troops for their commitment and role in restoring peace and stability in Somalia.
The DSRCC who toured the Headquarters, on Saturday, to familiarise himself with the Force’s operations urged the troops to continue the good work of helping Somali Security Forces (SSF) secure the country.
“Since 2007, It has been a long road for all of us. There has been great sacrifice, and effort from you in ensuring that the mission runs successfully and optimally,” said Bam.
“I am proud of the work that you have done and keep up the good work. I am proud to be among a team of men and women who are dedicated to finding a solution,” he added.
He assured that ATMIS was focused on formulating a withdrawal plan that will not compromise the security gains achieved.
Echoing the DSRCC’s remarks, ATMIS Deputy Force Commander in charge of Operations and Plans Maj. Gen. Marius Ngendabanka expressed confidence in the troops’ abilities to stabilise Somalia.
“The African Union peacekeepers have made a lot of sacrifices in Somalia by conducting successful operations against Al-Shabaab and other armed opposition groups,” he said.
Maj. Gen. Ngendabanka, noted that joint operations with SSF across the Federal Member States have also been instrumental in fulfilling the Mission’s mandate.
The DSRCC also toured the Joint Operation Centre (JOC), which plays a crucial role in enhancing coordination and planning between ATMIS and SSF. Additionally, the centre facilitates collaboration and operational planning in accordance with the ATMIS Concept of Operations (CONOPS).
He received briefings on ATMIS military operations and the current security situation in the country.
ATMIS Chief of Staff Gen. Kindu Gezu and other senior military officers were present during the visit.