By Horn Africa News
Mogadishu — In a significant blow to the Al-Shabaab militant group, more than 50 of its fighters have been killed in a joint military operation conducted by the African Union Stabilization Support Operation in Somalia (AUSSOM) and the Somali National Armed Forces (SNA). The offensive is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen security and restore peace in Somalia.
This operation comes as diplomatic and military coordination intensifies between the African Union and troop-contributing countries.
On Tuesday, the African Union’s Special Representative for Somalia, Ambassador El Hadji Ibrahima Diene, held a high-level meeting in Mogadishu with ambassadors and envoys from countries whose troops are participating in the AUSSOM peacekeeping mission.
The meeting focused on priority tasks for AUSSOM, the enhancement of security cooperation, and accelerating collective efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability in Somalia.
“Your countries have demonstrated strong leadership, firm commitment, and full confidence in Somalia’s path toward sustainable peace. I am ready to work closely with all representatives to achieve long-term success,” Ambassador Diene stated during the meeting.
He gave special recognition to Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda — the leading contributors of military and police personnel to AUSSOM. He praised their critical role in safeguarding the unity of the African continent and supporting Somalia’s peacebuilding process.
The meeting was also attended by Ambassador Mouktar Osman Kaire, Deputy Special Representative of the African Union, General Sam Kavuma, the AUSSOM Force Commander, Hillary Sao Kanu, the AUSSOM Police Commissioner, and several other senior officials involved in the mission.
Discussions highlighted both the operational achievements made since AUSSOM was launched and the challenges that remain.
Ambassador Diene urged the international community to maintain and expand their support to ensure AUSSOM fulfills its mandate, helping Somalia attain lasting peace and stability.
The recent joint military success against Al-Shabaab is seen as a strong signal that coordination between Somali forces and international partners is yielding tangible results.
