AU calls for concerted efforts to counter use of explosive devices in Somalia

The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has called for concerted efforts by all stakeholders and local communities to counter the threat posed by improvised explosive devices (IEDs) .

Diomede Ndegeya, ATMIS Force Commander said the threat posed by IEDs necessitates the mission and partners to come up with innovative counter-IED measures.

He said there was a need to evaluate the conduct of the mission’s activities and operations, with the view of finding solutions to the challenge posed by explosive devices.

He added that despite efforts by UNMAS to enhance the mission’s counter-IED capability through training, mentoring, and equipment support, IEDs continue to pose a significant threat.

According to the UN, Some 501 civilians were killed or injured in Somalia in 2020 due to improvised explosive devices and explosive remnants of war while the number of casualties increased to 669 casualties in 2021