KISMAYO, Somalia – Kenya’s newly appointed Chief of Defence Forces, General David Keter, has paid a visit to Kenyan troops stationed in Somalia as part of the African Union peace mission, AUSSOM, to assess their operational status and boost morale amid ongoing operations against the militant group Al-Shabaab.
General Keter was received by AUSSOM Sector Two Commander, Brigadier Edward Banda, and Deputy Commander Colonel Samson Kenga. The delegation toured key military bases in Dhobley, Afmadow, and Kismayo – areas where Kenyan troops are playing a frontline role in stabilization and counter-insurgency efforts.
During the visit, Keter underlined the critical role of AUSSOM in supporting Somalia’s security, particularly in areas recently recovered from Al-Shabaab. He reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to regional peace and the joint fight against terrorism.
Banda welcomed the visit, saying it came at a crucial time and served as a strong morale booster for the troops on the ground.
Kenyan forces first entered Somalia in 2011 in response to cross-border attacks and the abduction of aid workers in the northeastern region. The following year, they formally joined the African Union mission, then AMISOM.
Since then, Kenya has faced multiple deadly attacks claimed by Al-Shabaab, which has vowed to continue its campaign as long as Kenyan forces remain deployed in Somalia.
