Baidoa, 17 December 2024 – Ethiopian troops serving with the African Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) have been honoured for their outstanding contributions to peace and security in Somalia.
The soldiers, who recently completed their tour of duty, were honoured for degrading Al-Shabaab and protecting local communities in South West State.
Presiding over the medal award ceremony in Baidoa on Tuesday, ATMIS Military Chief of Staff, Brig. Gen. Kindu Gezu, praised the soldiers for their courage, professionalism, and selfless service.
“We gather to celebrate your remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication as you receive these well-deserved medals of honour. This ceremony is a testament to your courage, discipline, and commitment to ensuring peace and stability in Somalia,” said Brig. Gen. Gezu.
He commended the Ethiopian contingent’s high level of discipline and significant contributions to regional and global peacekeeping operations since the 1950s.
“Ethiopia has been a key contributor to the African Union Mission in Somalia, which reflects the country’s commitment to peacekeeping and its dedication to regional stability and international peace efforts,” he added.
ATMIS Ethiopian Contingent Commander, Brig. Gen. Besfat Fente Tegegn, congratulated the soldiers on completing their tour of duty and successfully meeting the Mission’s objectives despite numerous challenges.
“Adverse climatic challenges, particularly El Niño-induced rains, and the ensuing heavy floods significantly impacted the lives and property of the people,” said Brig. Gen. Tegegn.
“These conditions also affected the operational mobility of our troops, equipment, weaponry, and the well-being of our forces. However, through collaboration with the public and our partners, we were able to avert a calamity,” he added.
Brig. Gen. Tegegn thanked the South West State administration, community members, the United Nations, and international partners for their close collaboration and support.
South West Minister of Security, Hassan Abdiqadir Mohamed, commended the troops for securing the region against Al-Shabaab and other illegal armed groups.
“Today, we are pleased to participate in this medal award ceremony for the ATMIS Ethiopian troops stationed in Sector 3, Baidoa. They have done an exceptional job and truly deserve this Medal of Honor,” said the Minister.
“We are grateful to ATMIS Ethiopian troops for their excellent work in securing our communities and enhancing the capabilities of our security forces. They have always responded when we needed assistance,” he added.
The ceremony was attended by ATMIS officers from the military and police components, South West State officials, UN personnel, and political and community leaders.
