MOGADISHU — The African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) and the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) have agreed to strengthen cooperation in addressing the growing threat posed by explosive devices in Somalia, officials said.
AUSSOM Force Commander Lieutenant General Sam Kavuma met UNMAS Somalia chief Fran O’Grady in Mogadishu to discuss expanding joint efforts against improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and other explosive hazards.
The two officials agreed on the need to accelerate mine action operations and broaden training programmes aimed at developing sustainable national capacity to manage explosive threats.
Kavuma emphasized the importance of equipping AUSSOM personnel and Somali security forces with advanced skills to detect and neutralize explosive devices, describing them as a continuing threat to both security personnel and civilians.
O’Grady reaffirmed UNMAS’s commitment to supporting Somalia’s efforts to reduce explosive hazards, saying mine action remains a critical component of broader initiatives to promote peace, security and long-term stability.
Somalia continues to face significant security challenges from explosive devices used by militant groups, which hinder civilian movement, disrupt essential services and complicate reconstruction efforts in affected areas.
UNMAS has worked closely with Somali authorities and international partners for years to strengthen explosive ordnance disposal and counter-IED capabilities across the country.
