In a promising step towards stability, Somalia is witnessing significant progress with help of peacekeeping missions, with the AU Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) taking the lead. As the nation navigates its path to lasting peace, ATMIS, along with Ethiopia’s unwavering support, has emerged as a crucial force, working hand in hand with Somali authorities to establish security and lay the foundation for stability.
Somalia, a country long plagued by internal conflicts and terrorism, has seen its fair share of challenges. However, recent developments have brought a renewed sense of hope, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the African Union (AU), the United Nations, the Somali government, and Ethiopia, among other countries.
ATMIS, established in 2022, represents the AU’s commitment to supporting Somalia’s transition to self-reliance in matters of security and governance. The mission’s primary objective is to build the capacity of Somali security forces and institutions, ensuring the country can independently address internal security threats.
Over the past two years, ATMIS, bolstered by the vital contributions of Ethiopian troops, has played a pivotal role in training and mentoring the Somali National Army (SNA) and the Somali Police Force (SPF). These combined efforts have led to notable improvements in the capabilities and professionalism of the Somali security forces. With ATMIS and Ethiopian support, the SNA has effectively launched and sustained counter-terrorism operations, targeting extremist groups such as Al-Shabaab.
Recently, in his visit to the Force Headquarters of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), the Deputy Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (DSRCC) for Somalia, Sivuyile Thandikhaya Bam, commended the African Union troops for their commitment and role in restoring peace and stability in Somalia. The DSRCC who toured the Headquarters, on Saturday, to familiarise himself with the Force’s operations urged the troops to continue the good work of helping Somali Security Forces (SSF) secure the country. “Since 2007, it has been a long road for all of us. There has been great sacrifice, and effort from you in ensuring that the mission runs successfully and optimally,” said Bam.
“I am proud of the work that you have done and keep up the good work. I am proud to be among a team of men and women who are dedicated to finding a solution,” he added. He assured that ATMIS was focused on formulating a withdrawal plan that will not compromise the security gains achieved. Echoing the DSRCC’s remarks, ATMIS Deputy Force Commander in charge of Operations and Plans Maj. Gen. Marius Ngendabanka expressed confidence in the troops’ abilities to stabilise Somalia
“The African Union peacekeepers have made a lot of sacrifices in Somalia by conducting successful operations against Al-Shabaab and other armed opposition groups,” he said. Maj. Gen. Ngendabanka, noted that joint operations with SSF across the Federal Member States have also been instrumental in fulfilling the Mission’s mandate.
The DSRCC also toured the Joint Operation Centre (JOC), which plays a crucial role in enhancing coordination and planning between ATMIS and SSF. Additionally, the centre facilitates collaboration and operational planning in accordance with the ATMIS Concept of Operations (CONOPS). He received briefings on ATMIS military operations and the current security situation in the country. ATMIS Chief of Staff Gen. Kindu Gezu and other senior military officers were present during the visit.
In similar vein, Ethiopia’s role in stabilizing Somalia cannot be overlooked. Ethiopian troops have made significant sacrifices and suffered casualties while working towards pacifying Somalia and strengthening the administration in Villa Somalia. After President Siyad Bare’s rule, Somalia faced fragmentation without a central government. In response to the peak of Somali piracy in 2008, regional countries, including Ethiopia, Kenya, and Djibouti, came together to form the Djibouti Code of Conduct, which aimed to counter this menace. Subsequently, Ethiopia and other nations entered Somalia after conferences held in Addis Ababa, leading to the establishment of a transitional government and the subsequent entry of AMISOM, which greatly improved the country’s stability.
Ambassador Muktar Mohamed, Ethiopian ambassador to Somalia, in his recent stay with The Ethiopian Herald said that the multifaceted engagement of Ethiopian troops in Somalia. Besides participating in peacekeeping missions, Ethiopian troops have been actively involved in enhancing Somalia’s security apparatus through the provision of military training to Special Forces. Ethiopian troops have been providing military training to the state’s Special Forces, known as “Darwish,” in the South West State of Somalia. Moreover, Somalia’s soldiers have been receiving training in Ethiopia through bilateral arrangements, further strengthening their military capacities.
Since the establishment of Somalia’s transitional government, the Ethiopian government has trained numerous Somali police and defense forces, contributing significantly to the country’s security. Ethiopia has also offered scholarships for training Somali cadets and military generals, demonstrating its commitment to building the military capacities of Somalia, he said.
Through continued collaboration and investment in capacity building, governance reforms, and socioeconomic development, Somalia’s vision of a peaceful and prosperous nation can be realized, bringing hope and stability to its people and the region as a whole.
Recently, ATMIS conducted intensive training for 25 Criminal Investigation officers from the Somali Police Force (SPF) on investigating financial crimes to aid the Federal Government in combating terrorism backers. The training focused on detecting crimes such as money laundering, terrorist financing, and other illegal activities. These capacity-building initiatives by ATMIS contribute to the Somali Police Force’s ability to assume full security responsibilities when ATMIS exits Somalia later this year.
The sacrifices made by various entities have played a pivotal role in improving the stability of Somalia. Neighboring countries, including Ethiopia, have made significant contributions. Furthermore, the unwavering support and commitment of the African Union, the United Nations, and other organizations have played a crucial role in creating the current state of relative peace in Somalia.
BY EYUEL KIFLU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 24 MARCH 2024
