Somali South West State Health Minister Commends AUSSOM Troops For Supporting Communities

The Minister of Health and Social Welfare for South West State, Hon. Abdulkadir Sharif Shekhuna, has commended African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) troops for their contribution to protecting and improving the lives of Somali communities.

Minister Shekhuna made the remarks during a meeting held at Battle Group 45 Headquarters in Embresso, Barawe District, where he expressed appreciation to the peacekeepers for their continued support to local communities.

“Allow me to extend my sincere gratitude and appreciation to you for the important role you play in improving and protecting the lives of our people,” Shekhuna said.

He particularly recognised the medical support provided by AUSSOM personnel, saying their services had contributed to improved health outcomes in the region.

Barawe District Commissioner Abdullahi Umar Mohamed also praised the joint security operations conducted by AUSSOM and the Somali National Army (SNA), saying the cooperation had helped maintain peace and stability in the Barawe sub-sector.

The Commander of 66 Brigade, Col Abdurahman Elmi, commended the strong cooperation between AUSSOM and SNA troops, describing the two forces as “one family.”

Representing the Battle Group 45 Commander, the Commanding Officer of 145 Infantry, Lt Col Geoffrey Ochan, thanked the people of Barawe and SNA troops for maintaining a strong working relationship with AUSSOM.

Lt Col Ochan highlighted several activities undertaken by AUSSOM in the area, including civil-military cooperation (CIMIC), civilian protection and support for infrastructure development.

“We, as AUSSOM, are always ready to provide any available assistance and support to both civilians and our sister security agencies,” he said.

The meeting was attended by officials from the South West State Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Barawe District leaders, and officers from the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and SNA.