Since receiving hygiene kits, Ilhan has experienced a profound transformation that has boosted her confidence and enabled her to concentrate on her education.

“Before the ATMIS Female Engagement Team introduced us to the program, we stayed at home. We had a negative perception of education but now this has changed, and we attend school regularly. We’re thankful to ATMIS for enabling us to stay in school via this program,” Ilhan says.

“I can now focus on my studies and dream about my future,” she adds with a wide smile on her face.

Ilhan is among 270 girls at Dhobley Primary School who have benefitted from a three-year mentorship program led by the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) Female Engagement Team (FET) and the Dhobley Women’s Association.

The mentorship sessions focus on personal hygiene and self-care. Each participant learns how to manage her menstrual cycle and receives a hygiene kit containing essential products such as sanitary pads, soap, and other materials necessary for maintaining proper hygiene.

“Through our continuous mentorship and educational programs, we are not just providing girls with hygiene kits but giving them the knowledge and encouragement to confidently care for their health and also make them aware that they can achieve anything they desire through education,” says Capt. Valarie Shikuku, the ATMIS Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Gender Officer.

For many girls in Dhobley, menstruation has historically hindered their education, with many missing school during their periods due to a lack of resources, knowledge, and societal stigma. However, the collaboration between the ATMIS FET and Dhobley Women’s Association is addressing these challenges.

“ATMIS has helped us a lot with our education, providing learning materials and personal hygiene kits and for all this, we’re thankful,” says Ikhlaas Ibrahim Arte, a student and beneficiary.

Under the program, the ATMIS KDF Female Engagement Team and the Dhobley Women’s Association have been raising awareness and providing practical support to girls and women in the local community. The initiative has empowered women and girls in Dhobley, ensuring that girls can attend school without the fear of embarrassment related to menstruation.

“Last year, many girls returned to school with increased confidence, and this year, even more girls are joining our programs, motivated by the knowledge that they won’t miss class because of menstruation,” says Fatima Abdi, chairperson of the Dhobley Women’s Association.

“By providing access to menstrual hygiene products and fostering a supportive environment, we’ve removed a major barrier to their education,” she adds, referring to the low enrollment rates for girls in Somalia’s Federal Member States (FMS) due to social, economic and cultural reasons.

As part of the program, the ATMIS KDF Female Engagement Team and the Dhobley Women’s Association recently held a mentorship session at Dhobley Primary School to commemorate World Children’s Day. They engaged the girls on personal hygiene, and self-care – critical topics that directly influence their school attendance and academic success.

The mentors also donated balls, football kits and books to boys at the school to create awareness about girls’ right to education and destigmatize menstruation.

“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the ATMIS Female Engagement Team for their remarkable efforts in raising awareness among our female students. The valuable information and guidance they provide has greatly empowered our students, equipping them with the knowledge to care for themselves better,” said Sadia Madobe, a teacher at Dhobley Primary School.

Through the mentorship program, the ATMIS KDF Female Engagement Team and the Dhobley Women’s Association aim to increase enrolment of girls and minimize school dropouts.

The goal is to increase girls’ transition to higher education, boosting the number of women professionals and fostering long-term economic empowerment. This will create a generation of girls and women who are equipped to lead, thrive, and contribute to prosperity of their communities.

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The officers, serving with ATMIS, were evacuated to Nairobi for specialized treatment. 

Ambassador Souef was accompanied by the Deputy Force Commander in charge of Support and Logistics, Major General Peter Muteti. 

“ATMIS is quite impressed with the standards, the quality, and the hospitality in most hospitals,” said Maj. Gen. Muteti. 

He said the patients made remarkable progress in their recovery and are expected to be discharged soon. 

The visit highlights ATMIS’ commitment to health and well-being of its personnel injured in the line of duty. 

“ATMIS cares about the welfare of the soldiers, and we ensure they receive the best possible treatment to fully recover so they can return to their duties as quickly as possible,” added Maj. Gen. Muteti. 

The officials also met with medical staff and senior management of the hospitals, who provided updates on the patients’ conditions. 

“We continue to pray that every patient received here is cared for to the best of our ability, so they can return to their country or the field as healthy as they were before their injuries, if not better,” said Dr. Aysha Edwards, a chief executive at one of the hospitals. 

Another senior official from one of the hospitals, Anderson Mugo, said the patient admitted to the facility was responding well to treatment and would be discharged soon. 

“We were able to stabilize the patient upon arrival, and as we speak, he has made significant progress. We expect to discharge him within the next two to three days after we secure his stability and are comfortable with the outpatient plan,” said Dr Mugo. 

“He is in good spirits, and he is happy with the clinical care so far received. We appreciate the continued support we have received from the team we work with that has enabled us to give exceptional clinical care to all our clients.” 

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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.

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The water projects are part of the ongoing ATMIS Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) initiative, which aims to improve access to clean potable water for Somali Police Force officers and local communities. 

The handover ceremonies took place at separate events led by the ATMIS Police Commissioner, (AIGP) Hillary Sao Kanu, and her deputy (CP) Martin Amoru. 

At the Jowhar Airfield Police Station in Hirshabelle State, AIGP Kanu emphasized the significance of the projects: “This water project is important because it will not only serve the police officers or security personnel in this area but also the nearby community, especially the IDP camp.” 

CP Amoru echoed similar sentiments during the ceremony in Baidoa, stating, “These projects are beneficial for the Somali Police Force (SPF) officers as they will enable them perform their duties more efficiently. Water is life, and officers will have it available right where they are instead of having to go far to find it.” 

At both events, local police officers also received modern office equipment to enhance service delivery in their areas. 

AIGP Kanu and CP Amoru expressed gratitude to the government of Kazakhstan for sponsoring the water projects and to the government of Japan for funding the office furniture. 

They noted that each water project, equipped with an elevated storage tank with a capacity of 10,000 liters, will strengthen cooperation between the SPF and local communities, who are the intended beneficiaries. 

“We are appealing for more projects to be constructed in the nearby IDP camps and communities to help alleviate the suffering of the inhabitants,” said AIGP Kanu, urging the officers to take proper care and make good use of the office equipment. 

ATMIS Civil Engineer Andrew Alele noted that the Baidoa water project intended to serve the local community, including the internally displaced persons (IDPs) from the neighbouring Hannan and Towfiq camps, has met all necessary safety standards. 

“The project has passed the water quality analysis test for biological, physical, and chemical parameters, conducted by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources of South West State, in accordance with World Health Organization safety standards,” said Engineer Alele. 

The Director General (DG) of the Hirshabelle Ministry of Energy and Water Resources, Mohamed Musa, described the project as a sustainable solution to the persistent water shortages experienced in the area. 

“This project will address the community’s water needs, and we hope it will contribute significantly to our efforts in finding durable solutions. We are grateful to ATMIS and its donors for their unwavering support,” he said. 

The Hirshabelle Traffic Police Commander, Lt. Col. Hassan Daud Mohamed, praised ATMIS for its timely support and commitment to stabilizing Somalia. 

“We have received much-needed office equipment from ATMIS, and we appreciate the initiative from our brothers. We request ATMIS to continue supporting us with essential materials that are vital for the police’s functioning,” said Lt. Col. Hassan. 

Similarly in Baidoa, the Bay Regional Police Commander, Colonel Amin Mohamed Osman, commended the strong relationship between SPF and ATMIS, expressing gratitude for the two handed-over projects. 

“The office equipment and furniture will greatly assist the Somali Police Force in providing essential policing services to the community. We are grateful to ATMIS for always supporting the people of Somalia and the Somali Police Force,” he noted. 

In August, ATMIS launched the construction of three solar-powered water projects in Baidoa, Kismayo, and Jowhar. The handover events in Baidoa and Jowhar were attended by senior ATMIS military and police officers, UN personnel, and top officials from Hirshabelle and South West State. 

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The officers, who have completed their tour of duty, were awarded the prestigious AU medals, pins of gallantry, and certificates of appreciation for their unwavering service in various capacities, including planning, mentoring, operations, logistics, medical support, and communication. 

“Through your efforts, we have witnessed significant milestones achieved in the fight against terrorism, the strengthening of Somali institutions, and the stabilization of communities once torn apart by conflict,“ said the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) for Somalia, Ambassador Mohamed El-Amine Souef, at a farewell ceremony in Mogadishu on Saturday. 

“Your presence has provided hope to millions and demonstrated the power of collective action in addressing some of the most complex challenges facing our continent,” added Ambassador Souef, who is also the Head of ATMIS. 

He commended the officers for their sacrifices and professionalism in advancing the mission’s mandate and spearheading a Somali-led transition process, which included the handover of strategic Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) in various sectors. 

“You came to Somalia to contribute to peace, stability, and the eventual transfer of security responsibilities to the Somali people. You leave behind a legacy of service and sacrifice that will inspire those who continue this journey,” he noted. 

Ambassador Souef expressed gratitude to the African Union, Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs), and partners for their collaborative efforts and solid partnership in supporting the peacekeeping mission. 

Among the senior leadership awarded were Deputy Force Commander in Charge of Operations and Plans, Maj. Gen. Marius Ngendabanka; Deputy Force Commander in Charge of Support and Logistics, Maj. Gen. Peter Muteti; and Military Chief of Staff Brig. Gen. Kindu Gezu Tegegn. 

“I am pleased to say that you have continually served with unstinted resilience and unwavering mettle in ATMIS, helping restore order amid unpredictable security situation in Mogadishu and across all sectors, which has provided commendable influence on ATMIS operations,” Maj. Gen. Ngendabanka told the officers. 

He recognized their professionalism and dedication to supporting peace initiatives in Somalia while paying tribute to the fallen soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for the country’s peace and security. 

In his remarks, Brig. Gen. Gezu emphasized that the officers’ exemplary service significantly impacted the mission mandate and peacebuilding efforts in Somalia. 

“This medal parade is not just a ceremony; it represents profound recognition of your contributions to the noble goal of sustainable peace and security in Somalia and the wider Horn of Africa. Each of us has played a pivotal role in advancing the African Union’s mission to stabilize Somalia, strengthen its institutions, and create conditions for long-term development and peace,” said Brig. Gen. Gezu. 

One of the most notable accomplishments of the officers was overseeing the successful drawdown of ATMIS troops and the subsequent handover of strategic frontline Forward Operating Bases (FOB) to the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) in November. 

The ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials, including representatives of TCCs, ambassadors accredited to Somalia, ATMIS Police Commissioner (AIGP) Hillary Sao Kanu, Sector Commanders, and other ATMIS and United Nations officials. 

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Kenya gained independence from the British on 12 December 1963.

The ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials, including the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) for Somalia, Ambassador Mohamed El-Amine Souef; Somalia’s State Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, Hirsi Jama Ganni; State Minister for Blue Economy and Fisheries, Mohamed Yusuf Adan; the Acting Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (SRSG) for Somalia, James Swan; the diplomatic corps; officials from the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS); as well as United Nations and ATMIS personnel.

“The role of Kenyan troops in ATMIS embodies the spirit of solidarity. Your unwavering dedication to fostering peace, combating extremism, and supporting the people of Somalia demonstrates Kenya’s enduring commitment to regional stability and the broader aspirations of the African Union,” said Ambassador Souef.

He praised Kenya’s legacy, highlighting its remarkable resilience and significant achievements as a model of inspiration in the region.

“From the struggle for freedom to becoming a cornerstone of peace and stability in our region, Kenya has remained a shining example of leadership and commitment to the ideals of Pan-Africanism,” added Souef.

A State Minister at the Office of the Prime Minister, Hirsi Jama Ganni, praised Kenya for its contributions to advancing Somalia’s peace and development process, particularly through the 2004 Mbagathi Peace Conference. He also acknowledged the sacrifices and commitment of the Kenya troops in restoring peace and stability in Somalia.

“From hosting Somali refugees to contributing to our security and stability, Somalis in Kenya and Kenyans in Somalia have fostered economic growth

and cultural exchanges that enrich both nations,” stated Ganni, who represented Somalia’s Prime Minister, Hamza Abdi Barre.

“Together, we have the potential to enhance trade and regional collaboration for shared prosperity. Let us continue to build a future defined by unity, peace, and progress,” added the Minister.

Kenya’s Ambassador to Somalia, Cyprian Kubai Iringo, reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to supporting Somalia’s quest for long-lasting peace, stability, and prosperity.

“Kenya will continue standing with Somalia in the fight against terrorism, extremism, and other transboundary criminal activities,” said Ambassador Iringo.

The anniversary provided an opportunity to reflect on the significant advancements that have occurred since independence.

The Acting SRSG and Head of the UN Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS), James Swan, noted that Kenya has emerged as a beacon of democracy, a regional economic powerhouse, a vital diplomatic hub, and a significant contributor to global peace and security.

“Kenyan troops working alongside Somali forces have made great sacrifices and achieved significant successes in the fight against Al-Shabaab,” he added.

“Kenya has contributed to the diplomatic successes here in Somalia, from hosting hundreds of thousands of Somali refugees in the 1990s to organizing multiple peace processes during that era and leading the Mbagathi Peace Process in 2004, which remains at the center of the political system in Somalia,” James Swan added.

The theme for this year’s ‘Jamhuri Day’ (Independence Day) celebrations was ‘Jobs, Labour, Migration, Entertainment, and Entrepreneurship.’

“It is a significant day not only defined by its colonial roots but one that embodies our nationhood, prestige, and contribution to regional and global peace and shared prosperity,” said Maj. Gen. Peter Muteti, the ATMIS Deputy Force Commander in charge of Support and Logistics.

Kenyan troops, under ATMIS, are strategically deployed in ATMIS’ two key sectors: Dhobley and Kismayo. This dual presence allows Kenyan forces to safeguard critical infrastructure and support peace operations across southern Somalia.

Ambassadors accredited to Somalia, from China, Qatar, Djibouti, Uganda, and Yemen, as well as representatives from the European Union were also present.

Other guests included ATMIS Deputy SRCC, Sivuyile Thandikhaya Bam; ATMIS Force Commander, Lt. Gen. Sam Kavuma; Deputy Force Commander in charge of Operations and Plans, Maj. Gen. Marius Ngendabanka; ATMIS Police Commissioner, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) Hillary Sao Kanu; Head of United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), Assistant-Secretary-General (ASG) Aisa Kirabo Kacyira; and members of the Kenyan community in Somalia.

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This commitment was made during a symposium organized by ATMIS Protection, Human Rights, and Gender (PHRG) Cluster on Human Rights Day, 10 December, which also marked the conclusion of 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence (GBV).

“We must ensure our policies are effective, enhance engagement with our communities and promote the culture of accountability as we conduct our operations. I encourage you to critically evaluate this and identify any shortcomings so we can continuously improve the frameworks and systems that have been established,” said Sivuyile Thandikhaya Bam, Deputy Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (DSRCC) for Somalia, at the symposium’s closing on Tuesday.

“In our work, we must ensure we do no harm to those we work with and the host nation. That is the bottom line,” said Mr. Bam, emphasizing the events role in peacekeeping operations.

“As practitioners on the ground, we need to acknowledge that issues of compliance, civilian protection and our code of conduct, are evolving matters. Therefore, as the commanders and personnel who confront situations requiring decisions, you are the ones who must provide feedback about those experiences,” he added.

ATMIS uniformed and Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) personnel discussed key topics, including International Human Rights Law (IHRL), International Humanitarian Law (IHL), the African Union Compliance and Accountability Framework.

They explored enhancing compliance through the implementation of the Human Rights Due Diligence Policy (HRDDP) and the revised African Union Rules of Engagement (RoE), aligning with the ATMIS’ mandate to strengthen civilian protection.

The symposium reinforces ATMIS’ commitment to human rights and accountability in its peace operations, contributing to Somalia’s stability in accordance with international legal frameworks.

Human Rights Day celebrates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948, promoting awareness and respect for human rights.

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The training, jointly organized by the ATMIS Force Headquarters CIMIC Cell and the United Kingdom-Mission Support Team (UK-MST), aimed to enhance the officers’ understanding of CIMIC principles and practices in conflict situations.

“I am certain that at the end of this four-day training, the objectives have been met and participants have gained a lot by sharing their experiences with the various facilitators. It is my sincere hope that the lessons learned have enhanced your understanding of a wide range of CIMIC,” said Major General Marius Ngendabanka, the ATMIS Deputy Force Commander in Charge of Operations and Plans, during the closing ceremony in Mogadishu on Thursday.

“I wish to implore you to make maximum use of the knowledge that has been acquired by ensuring that it is applied as you undertake your day-to-day CIMIC duties in the mission.”

Maj Gen Ngendabanka stressed the crucial role of CIMIC tasks in facilitating coordination, operations, and information sharing between the military and civilian stakeholders, including local populations, authorities, non-governmental organizations and UN agencies.

Colonel Ben Ramsey, Commander of the British military’s Operation TANGHAM, commended participants for their commitment to fostering positive community relationships and strengthening civilian-military co-operation.

“What we are trying to do is ensure that we protect the local population and win their hearts and minds. CIMIC is a key tool that reassures people that soldiers are there to protect them rather than attack them,” said Col. Ramsey.

The training comprised theoretical and practical components, including planning civil-military co-operation activities, assessing the civil environment, conducting negotiations, coordinating humanitarian aid, gender perspective and establishing effective civil-military interactions with non-military actors.

During the opening ceremony, ATMIS CIMIC Staff Officer One, Lt. Col. Gregoire Ndikumazambo, emphasised that the course aimed to equip new CIMIC staff officers with the knowledge and skills to conduct frontline CIMIC operations with ATMIS Sector Five, in collaboration with the Somalia National Army (SNA) and external agencies.

Participant, Captain Niyondavyi Ange Salvatrice, a CIMIC officer from Jowhar, said: “The training equipped me with the requisite skills, knowledge, and ability to communicate effectively with civilians to win their hearts and minds and bolster community ties.”

Major Ntihinyuzwa Charles, a CIMIC Officer stationed at Mahaday Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Middle Shabelle, said he learned about the Joint Operations Centre (JOC)’s role in strengthening coordination among partners to achieve the mission’s mandate.

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The course, organised by ATMIS Police Training and Development Department at Jowhar Airfield in Sector Five, equipped Hirshabelle State officers with skills to protect vulnerable populations in conflict zones.

“The training was a success, with dedicated trainees gaining insights and skills needed to protect children in armed conflict situations because the interest of the child is always paramount,” said ATMIS Police Lead Trainer, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Earnest Agbo.

He stressed the importance of safeguarding children from violence and the need for training Somali police officers in child protection to ensure their safety and wellbeing.

“Hirshabelle police officers were trained to effectively engage with children and connect them with appropriate services whenever necessary,” added ASP Agbo.

The training covered a range of topics, including investigative procedures, the roles of various stakeholders, children’s rights, legal standards, and international and national frameworks for child protection.

Lt. Ahmed Abdulle Madoobe, the Deputy Commander of Jowhar Airfield Police Station, said the training will improve officers’ ability to safeguard children’s rights and well-being.

“I thank ATMIS and Hirshabelle officials for organising this critical training. The officers who attended gained invaluable knowledge that will improve their capacity to protect children and combat crimes against them,” said Madoobe.

ATMIS Training Coordinator, Superintendent of Police (SP) Emmanuel Audu, stressed the importance of training in safeguarding children’s rights in Somalia.

“Children face constant threats of exploitation, abuse and violence. To address this, the SPF officers have been equipped with basic knowledge and skills necessary to enforce the law related to children’s rights,” said Adu, who is based at the Mission Headquarters in Mogadishu.

Training participant Abdi Osman Aden, a Hirshabelle police officer, said the training equipped him with skills to effectively protect children’s rights.

“I have gained valuable insights to safeguard children’s rights and wellbeing. I am committed to applying this knowledge and imparting this information to my colleagues,” said Aden.

ATMIS remains committed to safeguarding children in conflict zones by empowering SPF officers.

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