AMISOM commanders meet to review the implementation of the Concept of Operations

Commanders of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) military component are meeting in Mogadishu to review and evaluate the implementation of the mission’s Concept of Operations (CONOPs).

The CONOPs provides a framework to guide the implementation of AMISOM’s gradual transfer of security responsibilities to the Somali Security Forces and exit from Somalia.

The three days meeting, which started on Friday is attended by commanders of the various AMISOM military contingents, Somali National Army (SNA) the United Nations and other development partners. The AMISOM commanders will, over the next three days, deliberate on progress to implement the CONOPs during the last three months.

Ambassador Francisco Madeira, the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the AU Commission (SRCC) for Somalia who opened the meeting, called for improved coordination and encouraged commanders to ensure the mission meets its objectives.

“We committed to undertake certain operations, and it is important that we see the results of those operations,” remarked Ambassador Madeira.

Ambassador Madeira commended the SNA and AMISOM troops for liberating Sabiid, Anole and Bariire, highlighting this as a milestone in efforts to restore peace and stability in Somalia.

Lt. Gen. Tigabu Yilma Wondimhunegn, the AMISOM Force Commander, attributed the success in operations to enhanced coordination between AMISOM, Somali Security Forces and international partners.

Lt. Gen. Tigabu noted that joint operations in the Lower Shabelle region had positively impacted on the security in Mogadishu city. “It has significantly reduced incidents of Improvised Explosive Devices explosions and mortar attacks, which Mogadishu had been experiencing,” Lt. Gen. Tigabu remarked.

AMISOM