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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PEACE AND SECURITY COUNCIL

1217TH MEETING

20 JUNE 2024

ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA

PSC/PR/COMM.1217 (2024)

COMMUNIQUÉ

Adopted by the Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union (AU) at its 1253rd meeting held on 19 December 2024 on Briefing on the Situation in Somalia, and Post-ATMIS Security Arrangements.

The Peace and Security Council,

Recalling all its previous decisions and pronouncements on the situation in Somalia and on ATMIS, particularly Communique [PSC/PR/COMM.1238 (2024)] adopted on 28 October 2024 on an update on the Situation in Somalia, and Post-ATMIS Arrangements with a Specific Focus on the Preservation of State Institutions; [PSC/PR/COMM. 1236 (2024)] adopted at its 1236th meeting held on 22 October 2024 on the Joint Meeting Between the PSC and the Permanent Representatives Committee (PRC) Sub-Committee on General Supervision and Coordination on Budgetary, Financial and Administrative Matters and F-15 Technical Experts on Financing Peace Support Operations and Activities of the Peace and Security Council; [PSC/PR/COMM.1225(2024)], adopted at its 1225th meeting held on 1 August 2024 on Consideration of the Strategic Concept of Operations of the AU-Led Mission in Somalia Post-ATMIS; and [PSC/PR/COMM.1217(2024)], adopted at its meeting held on 20 June 2024 on the Report of the African Union Commission on the Joint Strategic Assessment for the Post-ATMIS Security Arrangement for an AU-led Mission in Somalia;

Also recalling UN Security Council Resolution 2628(2022), which authorized the reconfiguration of AMISOM into ATMIS, Resolution 2710(2023), and the AU Member States to deploy up to 17626 uniformed personnel to ATMIS till 31 December 2023; Resolution 2741(2024) which calls for finalization of the overall design of the follow-on mission to ATMIS; its implications for the UN; and provide insight on the estimated resources required for the mission and costs thereof including, but not limited to, the framework established by resolution 2719 (2023); and Resolution 2748(2024) which calls for maintaining momentum on the security transition to the successor mission;

Reaffirming the AU’s solidarity with the people and the Government of the Federal Republic of Somalia in their aspirations for durable peace, security, stability, and prosperity; while reiterating the AU’s respect for the sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia;

Taking note of the opening remarks by H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and Spokesperson of the Government of the Republic of Djibouti and Chairperson of the PSC for December 2024; and the Introductory Statement and a briefing by H.E. Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, the AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security; as well as the statements by H.E. Ali Mohamed Omar, MP, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Federal Republic of Somalia, by the Representatives of the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD); and the United Nations; and

Acting under Article 7 of its Protocol, the Peace and Security Council,

1. Takes note of the Briefing Note on the Situation in Somalia and the Post-ATMIS Security Arrangements;

2. Commends the milestones achieved thus far, by the Federal Government of Somalia, including by the Somali defence and security forces, with the support of the AU Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS); underlines the importance of preserving the legacies of AMISOM and ATMIS and the current momentum in the fight against Al-Shabaab;

3. Pays special tribute to the Troop and Police Contributing Countries (T/PCCs) to the AU Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and to ATMIS since 2007 for their continued sacrifices; especially to the men and women of the two missions for their commitment and dedication to duty, particularly those who have paid the supreme sacrifice; and wishes speedy recovery to those nursing injuries from attacks by the Al Shabaab terrorist group;

4. Expresses grave concern over the continued threat posed by Al Shabaab to peace and security in Somalia and the region and condemns all the attacks against Somali security forces and ATMIS forces;

5. Reiterates continued support of the AU for the government of the Federal Republic of Somalia by providing capacity building to the Somali Security Forces, to accelerate its force generation and integration efforts;

6. Underscores the imperative for scaling up assistance to the Federal Government of Somalia in the mobilization of resources for stabilization and state-building priorities, as well as the need to ensure a smooth and orderly transfer of security responsibilities to Somali security forces; further reaffirms the essence for enhanced capacitation and empowerment of the Somalia security forces and encourages the Federal Government of Somalia to expedite the force generation and integration of accountable, affordable, self-sustaining and able security forces that can hold areas and undertake operations as part of the clear, hold and build strategy so that AUSSOM can conduct the orderly transfer of security responsibilities to Somalia at the appointed time;

7. At the political level, encourages all Somali political stakeholders to prioritise the country’s national interests and immediately resume inclusive dialogue on all outstanding national issues through the framework of the National Consultative Council (NCC); and urges them to exercise maximum restraint and refrain from any actions that may lead to escalation of tensions and undermine the stability of the country, and the fight against Al-Shabaab terrorist group, which is critical to the maintenance of regional and international peace and security;

8. Welcomes the Declaration recently signed between Ethiopia and Somalia in Ankara, Türkiye on 11 December 2024 and reiterates the AU’s unwavering commitment to respect the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of both countries in accordance with the AU Constitutive Act and international law;

9. Notes with concern, that the endorsement of AUSSOM and its funding modalities by the UNSC, in spite of the UNSCR 2741 and 2748 , remains pending, thus, posing challenges to the deployment of AUSSOM on 1 January 2025, and raising huge implications for the security situation in Somalia and the entire Horn of Africa region and, in this regard, once again stresses the importance of ensuring predictable, sustainable, and adequate funding for the AUSSOM, including through a dedicated funding mechanism through UN-assessed contributions in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2719 (2023), as the most suitable mechanism for providing adequate, predictable and sustainable funding, in order to avoid the perennial financial challenges faced by previous Missions;

10. Once again expresses appreciation to the UN and all international partners for their unwavering commitment and efforts towards promoting peace and stability in Somalia and for their invaluable contributions to AMISOM and ATMIS; and calls upon the international partners to continue providing the necessary support to Somalia and the AUSSOM in accordance with the Concept of Operations (CONOPs) adopted on 1 August 2024, to enable its successful deployment as of 1 January 2025; In the same vein, reiterates the need for the Commission, the UN and International Partners to mobilize in earnest the requisite funding to fill the ATMIS funding deficit of 120m USD before its planned exit on 31 December 2024;

11. Recalls the Letter Ref: PAPS/CMD/106/1/85270.2 of 7 August 2024 from the Chairperson of the Peace and Security Council for the month of August 2024 to the President of the UN Security Council for the month of August 2024 which transmitted the CONOPS to the UN Security Council and the PSC Communique [PSC/PR/COMM.1225(2024)] which adopted the CONOPs and endorsed the formation of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSOM);

12. While underscoring the importance of leveraging on the lessons learnt from AMISOM and ATMIS to ensure that AUSSOM is guaranteed adequate, sustainable and predictable funding; takes note of the Joint African Union-United Nations Report pursuant to UN Security Council resolution 2748(2024) and the letter jointly signed by H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the AU Commission, and H.E. Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations dated 26 November 2024; and in this regards, appeals to the UN Security Council to consider the financing option, on the hybrid application of the framework established under resolution 2719(2023), as the only practicable solution for AUSSOM, for the mission to fulfil its mandate and support the implementation of the Somalia Security Sector Development Plan (SSDP);

13. Reiterates the request for the AU Commission to continue extensive engagements with the UN, European Union, other strategic partners and potential new donors, in order to ensure adequate, predictable and sustainable funding and other forms of support for the AUSSOM; in this regard, requests the Commission to draw up a road map, in collaboration with the UN for resource mobilization to fill the funding gap of 25% for AUSSOM as directed by resolution 2719, including the possibility of convening a pledging conference;

14. Requests the Commission to present the AUSSOM Budget to the PSC for consideration and onward transmission following due process through the PRC Sub-Committee on General Supervision and Coordination on Budgetary, Financial and Administrative Matters (GSCBFM) and F-15 Technical Experts in order to use part of the interest accrued from the AU Peace Fund investment and the Crisis Reserve Facility (CRF) to contribute to the financing of the AUSSOM in line with paragraph 11, of Communique [PSC/PR/COMM. 1236 (2024)] adopted at the 1236th PSC meeting held on 22 October 2024;

15. Takes note of, with appreciation the Member States which recently formally expressed interest in contributing troops for AUSSOM, namely, Burundi, Djibouti, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda, and requests the AU Commission to finalize the report on the responses, in consultation with the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) on the composition of the Mission; and in this regard, welcomes the convening of the meeting of the Chiefs of Defense Forces of the Troop Partner Nations (TPNs) in Mogadishu, Somalia, which discussed the transition from ATMIS to AUSSOM held on 3-4 December 2024; and requests the AU Commission, in consultations with the Federal Government of Somalia, to urgently expedite the necessary steps to ensure the smooth deployment of AUSSOM, in accordance with the CONOPs approved by the 1225th meeting of the PSC on 1 August 2024;

16. Reiterates that the mainstreaming of post-conflict reconstruction and development, as well as peacebuilding measures to be undertaken by AUSSOM will strengthen the stabilization and recovery efforts of the FGS, and, in this regard, stresses the critical role of the AU PCRD Centre in efforts to rebuild the institutional capacities of the Federal Government of Somalia; and

17. Decides to remain actively seized of the matter.

Download it here.

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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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PRESS RELEASE

(For Immediate release)

ATMIS PR/16/2024

Mogadishu, 12 December 2024 – The Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) for Somalia and Head of ATMIS, Ambassador Mohamed El-Amine Souef, welcomes the communiqué signed on 11 December 2024 in Ankara by H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, and H.E. Abiy Ahmed Ali, Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, facilitated by H.E. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, President of the Republic of Türkiye.

The SRCC commends this exemplary act of leadership and underscores its significance in advancing regional peace, security and stability. He encourages both parties to implement the agreed measures, further consolidating mutual trust and cooperation for the benefit of their people.

ATMIS remains fully committed to supporting Somalia’s state-building and security transition, in line with the aspirations of the Somali people and the African Union’s vision for a stable and prosperous Africa.

_______________

For more information contact
Snr. Communications Officer Ms. Gifty Bingley (BingleyG@africa-union.org)
Force Spokesperson, Lt. Col Said Mwachinalo (fhq-sp@au-atmis.org)
Email:atmismediacenter@au-atmis.org
Cell phone: (Somalia) +252 616 982 416/+252 613 665 356/+252 617 682 175; (Nairobi) +254 722 433998

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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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