By Horn Africa News Staff
Kismayo — In a significant demonstration of leadership and solidarity, the newly appointed Commander of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), Lieutenant General David Keter, has concluded a high-profile visit to Kenyan troops operating in Somalia under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia, now officially known as the African Union Stabilization Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). The visit aimed to assess ongoing military operations, strengthen coordination with field commanders, and boost the morale of troops serving on the frontlines.
The multi-day mission took Lt. Gen. Keter and his senior delegation to strategic KDF bases in Dhobley, Afmadow, and Kismayo—key towns at the heart of stabilization and counterterrorism efforts in southern Somalia.
Upon arrival, Lt. Gen. Keter was warmly received by AUSSOM Sector Two Commander, Brigadier Edward Banda, and Deputy Commander, Colonel Samson Kenga. The officers guided the delegation through operational briefings, facility inspections, and direct interactions with the deployed personnel.
A Critical Time for the Mission
Lt. Gen. Keter’s visit comes at a pivotal time for AUSSOM, which continues to play a vital role in countering the persistent threat of Al-Shabaab and consolidating control in newly liberated areas. The KDF chief emphasized the importance of deepening cooperation with Somali national forces to ensure a smooth and sustainable transfer of security responsibilities as the mission progresses toward a full handover.
“The mission in Somalia remains a cornerstone of our regional peace and security strategy,” said Lt. Gen. Keter during his address to the troops in Kismayo. “Our presence here is not only about fighting terrorism, but also about creating space for governance, development, and peace to take root.”
He praised Kenyan soldiers for their courage, discipline, and professionalism in often dangerous and demanding conditions.
Boosting Morale and Command Presence
Brigadier Banda described the visit as both timely and motivational.
“This visit couldn’t have come at a better time. It has significantly raised troop morale and reaffirmed that their sacrifices are recognized and supported by the highest levels of command,” he noted.
Soldiers on the ground expressed appreciation for the direct engagement, viewing it as a strong sign of institutional support and solidarity from military leadership.
In a statement released following the visit, AUSSOM reaffirmed its dedication to peacekeeping and security efforts in Somalia:
“Sector Two remains fully committed to fulfilling its mandate and supporting Somali-led security initiatives,” the statement read.
A Soldier-Centered Command Philosophy
Beyond reviewing operations, Lt. Gen. Keter outlined his strategic vision for the future of the KDF—anchored in a “Soldier-Centric” leadership philosophy.
“My leadership will prioritize the well-being of every soldier,” he said. “This includes not only operational effectiveness but also access to healthcare, decent accommodation, family support, and career development.”
He stressed that troop welfare, morale, and professional growth are central to long-term mission success—particularly in challenging environments like Somalia.
“A soldier who is well taken care of is more resilient, more effective, and more committed to the mission,” he emphasized.
Looking Ahead
This visit—Lt. Gen. Keter’s first official field tour since assuming command—served as a powerful reaffirmation of Kenya’s strategic commitment to regional stability. It also reflected the military’s continued evolution into a modern, professional, and mission-driven force, with a renewed emphasis on leadership presence and troop welfare.
As the African Union and the Somali government move forward with the next phases of the AUSSOM transition, Kenya’s role remains indispensable—not only as a military power, but also as a steadfast partner in regional peacebuilding and capacity development.
For the soldiers stationed on the ground, the visit provided more than symbolic encouragement. It sent a clear and direct message: they are not forgotten, and their service matters.
Editor’s Note:
Kenya has been a key troop-contributing country to AMISOM (now AUSSOM) since 2011, following a rise in cross-border attacks by Al-Shabaab. The mission has since shifted focus from direct combat to enabling Somali forces to take full control of national security and governance.
