AU Special Representative Pays Courtesy Call on Somali President, Reiterates AMISOM’s Support and Commitment

The Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) for Somalia and the head of AMISOM Ambassador Francisco Caetano Jose Madeira has paid a courtesy call on Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, with discussions between the two leaders focused on continued cooperation in efforts towards stabilization and development of the country.

Amb. Madeira commended efforts by national and regional leaders exhibited at the just concluded National Consultative Forum, aimed at crafting a democratic system of electing Somalia’s leaders in 2016. He noted that the optimism expressed should be built on to attain consensus when the leaders next convene early next year in Kismayo.

The Head of AMISOM also reiterated the commitment of the mission towards ensuring improved security, essential for the ongoing political processes to take root. He noted that with the on-going Operation Jubba Corridor efforts were in place to ensure that asymmetric warfare tactics being employed by the terrorists were crushed and at the same time radicalization of the youths was tackled.

“We must continuously review operations for effective response to the asymmetric warfare adopted by Al Shabaab. Also important is countering radicalization and violent extremism among the youth. Indoctrination towards violent extremism is one of the key problems and the African Union is committed to addressing this problem in Somalia,” he noted.

He also called for deliberate effort to continuously support the youth and women, to enable them play their role towards the reconstruction of the country.

Amb. Madeira and the President agreed on the importance of improved partnership and cooperation at all levels in the conduct of operations and the various activities undertaken.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud thanked AMISOM for the sacrifice and commitment towards supporting the people of Somalia. He spoke of the extensive progress made so far, with massive security gains made, which can be built on to ensure stability in the country.

The President noted that improving the security of the country and institutional building for the Somali National Army and Somali Police Force both at national level and regional level are key priorities for government, calling for more support towards empowering them to grow into strong bodies capable of defending the country.

He also emphasized the need to support stabilization of the newly recovered towns, especially clearing access routes to facilitate free movement of people and goods.

Speaking about the ongoing political process, the President expressed optimism that progress will be made and the leaders will agree on the ideal options for the 2016 electoral process.

Ambassador Madeira also met with the Federal Prime Minister Omar Abdirashid Sharmarke, further reiterating the commitment of AMISOM to support the people and government and Somalia.

The SRCC was accompanied by his deputy Hon Lydia Wanyoto, AMISOM Deputy Force Commander in charge of Operations, Maj Gen Mohammedesha Zeyinu, AMISOM Police Commissioner Anand Pillay, Senior Political Officer Mr Sebirumbi Kissinzzigo, AMISOM Force Spokesperson Lt. Col. Paul Njuguna, and other senior AMISOM officials.