Lydia Wanyoto Mutende to give reports on AMISOM’s situation and efforts

The Deputy Head of AMISOM, Hon. Lydia Wanyoto Mutende, held a Press Conference today to brief journalists on AMISOM’s situation and efforts in Somalia. Here is what she had to say.

Good morning and thank you all for joining us today. As part of our routine briefing, I’ll be speaking today on behalf of the mission to update you on recent progress and upcoming events.

New SRCC

We will soon welcome the new Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Dr. Maman Sidikou.

This appointment comes at a time when continued progress has been witnessed in the consolidation of peace and the promotion of reconciliation in Somalia, despite the challenges that continue to confront the country, as demonstrated by the recent upsurge of terrorist attacks, particularly in Mogadishu.

US-Africa Summit

Leaders from across the continent have been in Washington DC for the first US-Africa Summit. The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma was also in attendance.

The Somali agenda was high on the summit. As you are aware, leaders of IGAD and the East African Community both pushed for more support for AMISOM and Somali National Security Forces.

The Somali president and the American administration have also expressed their confidence in the recent military successes against Al Shabaab. Al Shabaab is on the run and the era of terror is coming to an end.

The eyes of the world are on Somalia during this important period. Somalis are making great strides in stability, reconciliation and economic regeneration and we are here to support that.

Security

The joint efforts of AMISOM and Somali forces continue in earnest in Mogadishu and in key areas across Somalia. We continue to intercept and stop Al Shabaab in their tracks as they attempt to commit heinous crimes against innocent civilians.

Just last week, gallant Somali forces cracked down on illegal arms dealers in Mogadishu and we have also recovered two Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Devices before they went off.

We are seeing the dividends of the sacrifices made by the security forces. We will not sit back and savour the moment. We will move forward determinedly. We are relentless in our efforts and we stand true to our promise that Somalia will be free from Al Shabaab and its patrons Al Qaeda.

Very soon, our joint forces will move in an offensive to liberate the last remaining strongholds of Al Shabaab. We must support the efforts of these forces and I call on Somali civilians to be steadfast in their co-operation.

Humanitarian Crisis

We continue to closely monitor the humanitarian situation in the country. The Federal Government of Somalia, the United Nations and other international agencies have sounded the alarm on the worsening situation. We join partners in appealing for concerted efforts to remedy the situation.

AMISOM stands ready to play its role of providing safe corridors for urgent humanitarian assistance to reach the most vulnerable people. Already, we have facilitated humanitarian assessment missions and we are coordinating aid efforts in the areas under the control of Somali and AMISOM forces.

Federalism

AMISOM supports the recent agreement signed to establish an interim administration for the Central regions. It represents progress in the push for good governance, democracy and grassroots administration. The people of Somalia deserve accountability, service delivery and a say in the running of their government. Their determination to achieve this is unparalleled and we support these efforts.

Conclusion

As I conclude my briefing, I wish to send my congratulations to the young people of Somalia as we observe the International Youth Day, Young people are this country’s strongest asset and the key to its future. I call upon all of you to do your small part in enshrining a bright future where all your hopes and aspirations will come true.