www.amisom-au.org Issue 12 Aug - Oct 2013

Celebrating Progress At 53, Somalia Flexes Her Economic Muscle

Celebrating 50 Years of African Unity 1 Contents

2 SRCC Message Message 4 News Briefs from 6 Celebrating 50 years of OAU/AU: the Laying the bricks for Africa’s total unity

Editorial by SpecialSRCC Representative, Ambassador Mahamat Saleh Annadif 8 Somalia Marks 53 Years Of Independence

10 World Rediscovers Somalia as Economy Recovers elcome to the 12th edition of the independence, we remember the historic nation and its transformed military can WAMISOM Review. role it played in the cause of peace and be a force for democracy, peace, and This year, the African Union marks liberation on the continent. After all, reconciliation.”” 12 Somali Doctor Follows in Mandela’s Footsteps its golden jubilee. 50 years ago, the it was Somalia that most prominently Indeed, within AMISOM, thousands countries of the continent came supported anti-colonial and anti- of individuals are exhibiting the very together to form what was then known apartheid campaigns and even brokered principles for which the African 14 The Opportunity To Make A Difference as the Organisation of African Unity, a ceasefire between Uganda and Union stands: unity, Pan-Africanism, a forum for continental cooperation Tanzania in 1971, at a moment when the brotherhood. The AMISOM and unity against common threats. two countries were on the brink of war. Humanitarian Affairs Unit exemplifies 16 Somalia: Here To Help, Here To Stay In her remarks during the Handover So, in a sense, the continent, in all these in its day to day work helping Ceremony of the 50th Anniversary helping to restore peace and stability the Somali government and the Torches to the Member States, the in Somalia, is repaying a debt of international community address Chairperson of the AU Commission gratitude. There are few more inspiring the dire humanitarian situation in 18 UNSOM and AMISOM Working Together for Somalia noted that “the convening of thirty-two examples of this than the deployment of the country. Though much has been independent states in the Conference a contingent of Sierra Leonean troops achieved in providing safe access to of Independent African States in May under AMISOM. Sierra Leone is the humanitarian workers, providing basic 20 A Year In Somalia: A Peacekeeper’s Tale 1963, remains perhaps one of the most important statements undertaken by Africans towards self determination and 22 Slam Dunk: Basketball Makes a Comeback in Somalia prosperity.” It is a point of pride that the first It is a point of pride that the first country in which country in which the jubilee celebrations 23 Food, Dance, Basketball: A Game in Mogadishu were held was Somalia. For Somalia is the jubilee celebrations were held was Somalia. a premier example of what the ideals of Pan-Africanism can achieve put into action. Here, the African Union Mission in Somalia, which is composed of first country outside the East African equipment and supplies to hospital and individuals, teams and contingents from region to send a contingent to Somalia. beginning to rebuild the shattered social across the entire continent, is helping the Given its own troubled history and services infrastructure, much more Find us online: Somali people restore peace and stability the assistance it received from the needs to be done. We, in AMISOM, to their nation and confronting those international community, including remain committed to doing our part, Managing Editor: Eloi Yao amisom.somalia that would keep a fellow African country many African countries that contributed for as long as the Somali people need us, Spokesperson: Lt. Col. Ali Aden Houmed amisom.somalia amisomsomalia from a future of stability and prosperity. to the UN peacekeeping force there, and to helping them take their rightful Design & Layout: Vikki Keingati Somalia is also apt because of its Sierra Leone stands out as an example place at the continental table and join Photography: own history of Pan Africanism. This of how, in the words of President the rest of the continent in attaining the Stuart Price & Tobin Jones | AU/UN-IST issuu.com/amisom amisomsomalia vimeo.com/auunistnews year, as the country marks 53 years of Ernest BaiKoroma, “a transformed vision of a united and prosperous Africa. Email: [email protected] or [email protected] P.O. Box 20182 – 00200, Nairobi, Kenya Phone: +254 202 713 755 /56 /58 Fax: +254 202 713 766 www.amisom-au.org Publisher: Information Department of the African Union Mission Somalia

2 3 AMISOM Donates Medicines to AMISOM Police TRAIN News Baidoa Hospital 100 SPF Trainers On July 16th, the African Union 100 trainers from the Somali Police Force (SPF) in June participated in a 13-day peacekeepers in training course organised by the AMISOM Police Component at the Police Transport Roundup Baidoa donated a Centre in Mogadishu. The course aimed at equipping them with the skills to manage range of medical future SPF trainings and capacity building exercises. supplies to the The trainers were introduced to facilitation skills, management of training Baidoa regional environments and other concepts central to their work. hospital following AMISOM’s Police Training Coordinator Dr. Benjamin Agordzo commended the RSLAF Troops requests by the commitment displayed by the Somali Police Force officers and affirmed AMISOM’s local population continued support and partnership with the force. Move to and administration to support the town’s health facility. “We are here as partners, ready to work side by side with members of the Somali The hospital director, Dr. Abdallah Mohamed Bule, Police Force with whom we share common goals and objectives,” he said. who received the donation from a joint AMISOM The training is part of a long-term plan to engrain a robust training element in the New Base and United Nations Support Office for AMISOM local police force through the training of its own members as facilitators and trainers. (UNSOA) delegation thanked them noting the facility The Sierra Leonean contingent settled into its new base camp at the Old faced many challenges including lack of surgical Kismayo Airport but the Sierra Leoneans are also deployed in Tabda equipment, drugs, fuel to power the generators and and Dhobley where they carry out joint security patrols and operations shortage of staff. alongside their Kenyan counterparts. AMISOM’s Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) The West African troops become the latest to join the African Union donated 8 boxes of drugs containing antibiotics and AMISOM AMISOM HoldsWorkshop Mission in Somalia and joined the Kenyan contingent in Southern Somalia other drugs, antiseptic detergents, gloves, sterile gauzes for supporting the Somali National Army as joint forces that continue with the and surgical ward clothes and materials. Political UNIT Somali MPs stabilization and pacification of their area of responsibility. “We are proud and happy to support the welfare of The last batch of the RSLAF troops arrived at the Mission Headquarters the civilian community in this region,” Said AMISOM Visits in Mogadishu in June and was received by the Force Commander Lt Baidoa CIMIC officer captain Fred Nuwagaba. The Baidoa general hospital has a capacity of 140 Baidoa General Andrew Gutti before heading to Kismayo. beds and, constructed in 1937 by the Italians, is one of the oldest medical facilities in Somalia. The AMISOM Political Unit in June visited Baidoa, the capital of Bay region Ethiopians Hand Over and held talks with government officials. Engendering Equality The AMISOM Senior Political Affairs Security to Gov’t and AMISOM Officer, Mr. Ssebirumbi Kisinziggo, toured the town and held a series of In July, Ethiopian National Defense Forces officially handed over assessments and engagements with responsibility for the security of several parts of Bay, Bakol and Gedo different stakeholders in the region. regions to the Somali National Army and AMISOM. In a handover He met the Deputy Governor Osman ceremony held at Villa Baidoa, both SNA and AMISOM officials applauded Maalim, regional and district officials the Ethiopian troops for their efforts in maintaining peace in the region. A 4-day capacity building workshop institutions actively engaged in the as well as AMISOM personnel on the Somalia Chief of General Staff, General Abdirizak Khalif Elmi for members of the Somali consolidation of the peace and stability ground. commended ENDF and the Ethiopian government for their support in Parliamentary Committee on National achieved so far,” said Ambassador During the meeting, Mr. Ssembirmbi liberating many Somali towns, helping to train Somali soldiers and working Security, Interior and Governance was Annadif. “Parliament has the backing discussed with the different stakeholders with the local administrations in liberated areas. held in Mogadishu in June. of the people and it’s important that the establishment and capacity building AMISOM Sector 3 commander Colonel John Luc Habarugira thanked The workshop which brought we transform this show of faith into of local administration, the enhancement the Ethiopian troops for their continued support and for working closely Somalia began formulating and drafting its first together the legislators, parliamentary tangible benefits for the Somali people,” of security and reconciliation initiatives; with AMISOM and Somali National Army in protecting the Somali people. National Gender Policy with a workshop aimed at staff, regional experts and AMISOM he concluded. all with a view to supporting the gains The Ethiopian troops have withdrawn from Baidoa town but remain on exploring and developing gender-sensitive policy and civilian members sought to equip the “We recognize the efforts of made by SNSF and AMISOM. its outskirts. providing a framework for gender equality. MPs with an understanding of key AMISOM and we regard this The workshop was facilitated by the AMISOM They focused on bringing concepts in parliamentary oversight workshop as the foundation of an civilian component and brought together politicians, communities together, the establishment and security. enduring partnership between the the Somali Federal Government, Somali women’s rights of outreach programmes and building In a message read on his behalf Somali Parliament and the African activists and NGOs. Female peacekeepers from the people’s livelihoods in the community. by Amb. BasileGaretetse, the AU Union Mission in Somalia,” said AMISOM military and police components as well as the Having strengthened relationships Special Representative for Somalia, the committee’s chair, Hon. Fauzia African Union Gender Directorate also participated. and communications with the regional Ambassador Mahamat Saleh Annadif Mohamed Sheikh. During the four day workshop, participants worked representatives; the Political Unit praised the legislators for their show of AMISOM will handover equipment to identify key issues, challenges and strengths and to will now be better able to provide the commitment and effort and reiterated consisting of laptops, desktop computers develop a deeper understanding of gender issues and resources and support the local authority AMISOM’s pledge to work closely and printers to be used for the functions equality all the while learning from the experiences and and commanders need to maintain with Parliament. of the committee as it prepares for gender policies of AMISOM contributing nations. They stability and encourage further progress “Our efforts and initiatives are parliamentary dialogue on the country’s also mapped out the process for formulating Somalia’s across Baidoa’s communities. National Gender Policy to be approved by the Federal aimed at supporting the government security and administration. Government of Somalia. 4 5 CELEBRATING 50 Years of OAU/AU

intimately linked to African independence Nkrumah used Ghana’s independence in weakness, but until we unite, we cannot movement, the AU was the natural child activists such as Kwame Nkrumah, Sékou 1957 to bring together African liberation even begin to end that weakness.’ of the OAU, the reason why African Ahmed Touré, Ahmed Ben Bella, Julius movements at the 1958 All African Though it did not secure full political people are celebrating 50 years of OAU Nyerere, Jomo Kenyatta, Amilcar Cabral, People’s Conference (AAPC) which unity for the continent, the summit and AU. Laying and Patrice Lumumba, among others. The sought to synthesize Africa’s strategy for that gave birth to the OAU nevertheless Today, the AU is central to cementing the movement was a child of the Pan Africanist the liberation of the whole continent. planted the seed for that unity. In regional peace and security. It is engaged movement whose origins can be traced to From there, the African people’s demand following years, it became clear that in vital work to resolve conflicts -such for the experiences and writings of eighteenth for independence became even more the objective of ultimate African unity as in Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, Bricks century ex African slaves such as Olaudah poignant, resulting into the political would be a process rather than an event, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equiano and Ottobah Cugoano who had independence of a string of African to be achieved step by step, building Central African Republic, and Mali- recounted their tortuous road to freedom. states by the end of 1968 (seventeen block by building block. and is advancing development and Africa’s A century later, the theme of freedom states gained independence in 1960 The transformation of the OAU democratic norms across the continent, was popularized by forerunners of Pan alone). However, by 1963, many African into the African Union was essentially empowering women and youth, Africanism such as James Africanus, Beale a further step in expanding trade and investment, and Horton, and further energised by African the road to unity, a creating broad-based prosperity for Total Unity independence movement advocates of the recognition that the people across the African continent. twentieth century. In all, a long three- OAU had delivered In Somalia, in particular, the AU his year, Africa has been When the OAU was set up on 25 century journey. Unity will not end our the key mission of Mission is helping the society recover Tcelebrating 50 years of the May 1963, only 32 states were politically The independence movement gained weakness, but until we unite, continental liberation. from over two decades of conflict Organisation of African Union (OAU), independent. All of Southern Africa, momentum at the 1945 Fifth Pan African The new organisation and has been critical in preventing the continental organization that gave for instance, was still under colonial Congress, its proponents progressively we cannot even begin to end was tasked in a different the country becoming a bastion for birth to the African Union (AU) in rule: Namibia, Mozambique, Zimbabwe coalescing around a campaign for unity set of circumstances. international terrorism. Though serious 2001. At the occasion to mark the (then known as Rhodesia), Angola, as the only viable means of eliminating that weakness As the obstacles to challenges remain, it is clear that celebrations in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s Botswana, Lesotho, Swaziland, Malawi, colonialism, ensuring political independence and Somalia is slowly getting back on its feet. prime minister, Hailemariam Desalegn Comoros and Zambia, while South independence and liberating entire liberation were cleared, As prime minister Desalegn said, summarized the event’s importance: Africa was still under apartheid rule. continent. When Nkrumah penned leaders were of the view that political a new set of challenges was emerging “Africa is rising.” If history has taught “While our founders met for the The biggest challenge for the African his famous book Africa Must Unite, he independence, critical as it was, was not that needed to be tackled with new us a lesson, it is that we must keep on formation of the OAU at the dawn of continent at that time, therefore, was the was articulating the growing belief that enough to propel Africa to its rightful strategies and a fresher mandate, albeit confronting the challenges facing us, the independence period 50 years ago, achievement of political independence the surest engine for achieving these place on the world scene. Julius Nyerere, still within the framework of unity. however long it takes, always bearing it is fitting that we are meeting here for all the African states. monumental tasks was the unity of all the who acknowledged that Africa was Just as the independence movement in mind the Pan African motto: Don’t today at a time when Africa is rising.” Africa’s independence movement was African people. weak, cautioned: ‘Unity will not end our was a natural child of the Pan African agonise. Organise! 6 7 Somalia Marks of Years Independence53

omalia celebrated the 53rd women sold their gold, many others sent his hearty congratulations on behalf Sanniversary of its independence gave their freedom as they were jailed of the AU and AMISOM. in July with large crowds attending a in their quest for independence,” “On this day, 53 years ago, proud colourful event at the Konis Stadium in Mohamud said in his speech. “It was Somalis stood side by side as they Mogadishu presided over by President not up to one group [to carry the witnessed the historic birth of their Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime burden], but up to all citizens, and if nation built on the ideals of justice, Minister Abdi Farah Shirdon. success was achieved, everyone would social cohesion and above all, unity with The event was the culmination of thrive and flourish. That is what our their African brothers and sisters,” he week-long festivities held across the fathers and mothers understood and said, noting that after its Independence, country commemorating the liberation that is why they succeeded.” Somalia had supported the cause of its northern and southern territories This year’s celebrations coincide of liberty for many of the African from British and Italian rule. Aired with great strides made in the countries while championing African live on Somali National TV, it included political and security sectors in unity through the formation of the performances by the Somali National Somalia. Earlier, the president and Organization of African Unity (OAU). Band and Somali singers as well as prime minister laid wreaths at the “The Somali people have a marching parade by the Somali restored Tomb of the Unknown demonstrated their resolve to take National Army. Soldier in Mogadishu’s Bondhere charge of their country’s destiny. Despite The assembled citizens were urged district, the first such ceremony in all the challenges facing the country, to take lessons from the nation’s history over two decades. recent developments are encouraging,” as the country rebuilds its institutions The African Union Special said Ambassador Annadif promising and governments. Representative for Somalia, AMISOM’s unwavering commitment to “Many youths gave their lives, young Ambassador Mahamat Saleh Annadif, the welfare of the Somali people.

On this day, 53 years ago, proud Somalis stood side by side as they witnessed the historic birth of their nation built on the ideals of justice, social cohesion and above all, unity with their African brothers and sisters

8 9 World Rediscovers Somalia asEconomy Recovers

An average of 17 flights land there each day and in March they brought over 33,000 people to Mogadishu

airports ‘deemed to pose a security risk Signs of Somalia’s economic recovery which also confiscated up to half of their to aircraft, crew and passengers’. Several are also visible at the Mogadishu harvest, contributing to the 2011 famine private airlines based in East Africa, seaport, which is nowadays teeming that claimed, according to the UN’s including Kenya’s African Express and with activity. The busy port was closed Food and Agricultural Organization, a SAX, as well as Somali-owned private for much of the last 20 years but today quarter of a million lives. carriers like Jubba Airways and Daallo employs 5,500 people. Last year 222 Today, a year after the area was Airlines, already fly into Mogadishu and vessels and 248 dhows docked there liberated by AMISOM and the Somali in July, Air Uganda became the second bringing with them 1.2 million metric National Army, the farmers are back national carrier, after Turkish Airlines, to tonnes of goods. to work. Production has soared. At the add Mogadishu to its list of destinations. International companies are also local market, the stalls are overflowing. The government has recently eyeing opportunities in Somalia. At AMISOM has helped repair sections announced plans to revive Somalia’s own the end of July, Jordan-based AAIB of the road to the Mogadishu markets national carrier, Somali Airlines, which Insurance Brokers became the first which today is full of trucks laden with was grounded during the civil war. The foreign insurance company to receive fruits and other agricultural produce void was however filled by private air a permit to operate in the country. both for local consumption and for onfidence is returning to Somalia’s peace and security, implement good in the capital, Mogadishu which is operators and today, the private airline Its CEO, William Wakeham called export to the Gulf states. Cwar-ravaged economy following in governance and the rule of law, rebuild recording a sharp increase in travellers business is thriving. The carriers offer the permit “an important stepping The Mogadishu seaport this year also the wake of its widely hailed elections the economy, reform the financial sector, and air traffic. An average of 17 flights competitively priced tickets and are stone “in Somalia’s development and resumed the export of livestock after and peaceful transfer of power. After and orderly address the challenges posed land there each day and in March crucial to Somalia’s recovering economy. reconstruction. Late last year, the a 22-year hiatus. Saudi Arabia, UAE, a 22 year break, the International by the possible introduction of a new they brought over 33,000 people to As AMISOM and the Somali national country also caught the attention of Bahrain, and Egypt are main buyers Monetary Fund has recognized the currency to replace the many official and Mogadishu, a nearly 100% increase in forces have secured more areas of the foreign oil companies by announcing it and the animals are kept at the Jazeera Federal Government of Somalia paving non-official currencies in circulation. incoming passenger numbers over the country, the industry has followed suit intended to auction some of 308 newly pre-export livestock facility for up to 45 the way for it to provide technical The IMF has promised to support the previous six months. It is a veritable and now there are regular flights from delineated oil blocks this year. And days for veterinary health screening and assistance and policy advice though it finance ministry and the central bank sign of confidence in the security and Mogadishu to Kismayo and Beletweyne. the Somali government has already treatment ahead of export. Companies is for now precluded from providing and help them manage budget functions, economy of the city. “There are more The passengers arriving in Mogadishu started discussions with two previous like the Indian Ocean Livestock Co. are new loans pending clearance of the license and supervise commercial banks, people coming in than are going out,” can take advantage of any of the two new concession holders – Eni and Shell – said to be flocking back to the capital. “I country’s arrears of about $353 million. oversee basic monetary and foreign Satmo Musoke, the senior air traffic taxi companies that have recently began that want to reclaim their pre-1991 want to tell all Somalis and businessmen However, a fact-finding mission found exchange transactions and establish management officer at Aden Abdulle operating in Mogadishu, offering a safer blocks and enter into production that we are going to open an animal “an active resurgence of the private systems to collect and process vital airport told Business Daily. and more reliable way to get around sharing agreements. market in south Somalia, this will be an sector in the services industry, namely economic data. Somalia’s Minister of Information town. One is Mogadishu Taxi which has The traffic is not all one way. In opportunity for them to have a place to in the communications, construction, And it is help Somalia will need as its recently announced that the more than 100 vehicles and charges a the town of Afgooye, 30kms from the sell their animals to exporters so that and money transfer sectors.” It also economy rebounds. A good indicator International Civil Aviation third the cost of independent taxis. The capital, farmers were once charged for we can get more animals for export,” welcomed the federal government’s of this recovery can be found at the Organization (ICAO) had removed other, City Taxi, has a fleet of 10 and using the river’s water to water their says company representative Abdulkadir commitment to work towards restoring Aden Abdulle International Airport the airport from the ‘Zone 5’ list of rolled onto local roads in April. fields by the Al Shabaab terror group Mohamud Elmi. 10 11 he followed her dreams and beat all odds 14 years after leaving Somali soil, Asha Sand obstacles in her journey of life. Her returned in 2006. It was here that she work has won her awards. Early this month, carried out her doctorate in women in Dr. Asha Omar a Somali gynecologist and pregnancy and environment. Somalia obstetrician became only the second African was still in turmoil and she was after Nelson Mandela and the fourth woman reminded of the difficulties of living to be awarded the international prize of the in her home country. With restriction Golden Doves for Peace Award. of movement and Somali people Established in 1986, the international fearful of speaking openly on issues year of peace, by Archivo Disarmo, an and to persons from the diaspora, it Italian peace institute, the prize is awarded was difficult for her to carry out her to journalists and an international personage research. Despite the impediments, Asha who has contributed significantly to the completed her research in 2008 at the cause of peace. It consists of a golden top of her class. But even to get that far sculpture designed by the late renowned Asha’s journey had been fraught with Italian artist, Pericle Fazzini. Previous obstacles. winners also include the former Swedish In 1991 she had enrolled into the Prime Minister, Olaf Palme, former Somalia National University to study Secretary-General of the United Nations, medicine, but by 1992, with a civil war Perez de Cuellar and former Soviet Union ravaging the country, she was forced leader, Mikhail Gorbachev. This year, in to relocate to Egypt with her family. It pregnancy and has developed research the Italian government and AMISOM memory of Rita Levi Montalcini, who looked like her dream was never going and treatment for obstetric fistula. Due the hospital completed the first phase chaired the jury of the Awards for 16 years, to come true. Determined to follow her to early childhood marriage the child of refurbishment. Now, Dr. Asha splits it was given to four women. heart’s desire, Asha informed her family bearing age is estimated to be 14 to her time between Martini hospital and that she would not be accompanying 16 years. There is also great pressure the AMISOM level-two hospital. She them to the UK and instead would go on women to bear as many children acknowledges the great help she receives to Rome to continue with her degree as possible, enhancing their status in from the AMISOM medical practitioners in medicine. Being the last born of six society. The lack of access for many and soldiers who would carry out sisters, it was a battle to convince her women to hospitals has also contributed rotations with her at both facilities. Dr. family to let her go, but she eventually to the rise in cases of fistula in Somalia. Asha will not stop there; she plans to push succeeded and was on her way to Dr. Asha thus joined the campaign her care and training well beyond the Rome. This was a leap of faith for Asha. Separated from her family, with no funds for her tuition, she had a struggle ahead. But thanks to the help of her old professors from Somalia, her In 2009 Dr. Asha decided she could do first glimmer of hope: a scholarship to study medicine at Sapienza University more to support her own people and of Rome. Shortly after completing permanently relocated to Somalia. her bachelor of medicine in 1997, she became a member of the medical board. Somali Asha’s choice of specialisation was no coincidence. Hypertension is the most against fistula alongside AMISOM. capital. In collaboration with Hormuud, common medical problem encountered With the help of AMISOM doctors she a local mobile phone company, she is in pregnancy in Somalia, and a has been able to train 12 traditional looking to go into the regions of Baidoa condition that had blighted women in birth attendants from the rural areas and Beletweyne to carry out a campaign Doctor Asha’s family. In 2009 Dr. Asha decided of Mogadishu and 21 members of the on mammograms, ultrasound and to train she could do more to support her own Somali police force on safe delivery. another 21 traditional birth attendants Follows in people and permanently relocated to Dr. Asha works at SOS and lectures based in Baidoa and Beletweyne. Somalia. Asha’s passion to improve the on gynecology operations at Banadir Dr. Asha’s heart is with the Somali care of pregnant women in Somalia University. She has also published a people. She is alone in Somalia, choosing led to her volunteering her services at pictorial book written in Somali on safe her pioneering work over a comfortable the AMISOM level two hospital as a delivery. life in the UK with her family. Her work gynecologist and obstetrician. For the In 2010 Dr. Asha took on another in Somalia does not end at Martini Mandela’s last 17 years Dr. Asha has not asked challenge – that of heading up Martini or AMISOM level-two hospital. Dr. for financial remuneration. She has hospital. A challenge because this Asha continues to change the course of focused her work on strengthening was a hospital in name only. There hundreds of young Somali women and education and training in the care given was no medical equipment, medical mothers and is paving the way for future Footsteps to child-bearing women before and after staff or structures. With the help of generation women in her field. 12 13 The Opportunity to Make aDifference

bdul Diabagate has seen it all. He The humanitarian unit thus works AMISOM Forces to Villa Somalia, as a donation of generators for the be completed soon, will provide safe girl during an assessment visit he made Ahas been ambushed by armed closely with the AMISOM military Sea Port, Parliament, Stadium and the Banadir Hospital in Mogadishu, and drinking water to 216,000 families. to a Mogadishu IDP camp in 2010. He militia and has witnessed firsthand and police components, the Federal peripheries of Bakara Market as well of medicines and medical supplies In the course of his work, Abdul also treasures the memory of a grateful the terrible consequences of Somalia’s Government of Somalia, as well as local as few IDP settlements. It was a city to the Hawa Abdi Hospital in the interacts closely with the people he old lady praying for him following humanitarian catastrophe. The former and international agencies, to ensure where gunfire, hunger and sickness were Afgooye Corridor. The unit has also is trying to help. “I have had many donation of food as well as the death of substitute teacher and adjunct university humanitarian workers can access the part of everyday life and I felt I had an trained Somali government officials in occasions to visit with the local Dr. Mohamoud Ibrahim, former Somali professor has for the last five years been worst-affected populations across opportunity to make a difference,” says humanitarian principles, supported a communities and most of the hospitals Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and at the frontline of assisting the Somali the country and for Somali refugees Abdul. And make a difference he has. project to sustain improvements in the in Mogadishu,” he says noting that Resettlement, whom he got to know at a people cope with the effects of 20 years in the wider region. In areas where Under Abdul’s leadership, the health of Somali mothers and children the humanitarian situation in the personal level. “These were very emotive of conflict, displacement, drought humanitarian agencies cannot yet unit has mapped out concentrations as well as psychological support for city remained dire despite marked events for me,” he says. “They made me and famine. reach, the unit, with the support of the of internally displaced persons and civilians affected by the war at AMISOM improvements in security. “The Somali even more determined to do what I could The 47 year old from Ivory Coast military component, provides life-saving carried out assessments of their needs Field Hospitals in Mogadishu. people are living with the legacy of to help ease the suffering in Somalia.” heads the AMISOM Humanitarian interventions especially in the areas of as well as those of returning refugees. Currently the unit is supporting the over two decades of conflict which Abdul’s work involves long hours and Affairs unit, and is charged with water supply, health services and social It has coordinated the distribution of nearly $250,000 Mogadishu City Clean destroyed infrastructure for basic travels throughout the Horn of Africa monitoring the implementation of the services infrastructural development. humanitarian supplies to hundreds of Water Project which is rehabilitating services and led to widespread poverty Region. Based in Mogadishu, he is away mission’s humanitarian mandate and “When I first came to Mogadishu thousands of needy Somalis, as well and modifying four water wells in and left them vulnerable to extreme from his family for long periods. “I influencing the evolution of the AU’s in 2008, I was given a city tour by as donor support for hospitals such Wadajir, Hamarweyne, Hamarjajab weather hazards. The result is high miss them very much and wish I could overall approach to humanitarian affairs. and Dharkenly districts of the capital rates of death, disease, starvation, be home more often, especially during AMISOM’s humanitarian role is including supply and installation forced displacement and destitution.” the holy month of Ramadan,” he says. limited by its UN Security Council of brackish water treatment plants, It is clear that he cares deeply “But they understand that we have an mandate to contributing to “the creation They made me even more determined to do what generators, construction of water for them. One the experiences that obligation to help those less fortunate of the necessary security conditions I could to help ease the suffering in Somalia tanks, fountains, laying of pipes and moved him most, he says, was the than ourselves and I hope I am setting an for the provision of humanitarian fencing. The project, which is due to death from measles of a three-year old example that they will be proud of.” assistance.”

14 15 Somalia: militia and criminality. The few relatively is building up in sometimes spartan When dealing with conflict Kay continued, stable regional administrations take a wary accommodation at the sprawling airport “it’s not easy, you have to fight hard, view of the resurgent central government. complex, living alongside African Union it’s very complicated, it can take a long A provisional constitution leaves many big troops, civilian staff and contractors. time… but it can be done. You can see questions unanswered and the leaders of On June 19, the schedule of hugs and many countries that have come out of 20 to the self-declared state of Somaliland remain handshakes, introductions, visits -- in years of conflict, or less, and are successful Here Help adamant that it will go its own way. Mogadishu, Nairobi, Hargeisa and Djibouti democratic economies that are developing.” The Security Council created the -- briefings and interviews took the new We started to hear occasional gunshots, but new UN assistance mission in Somalia SRSG Kay to a small eating place just a the new SRSG continued: “This is a once UNMISS (UNSOM) on 2 May 2013, with SRSG few hundred metres from the gates of in a generation opportunity, and it is your UNITED NATIONS MISSION IN SOUTHERN SUtoDA N Kay at its head, and expects results in the Mogadishu airport base. Listening to a generation”. Here rule of law, building the institutions of group of youth leaders, in a circle of plastic As the conversation turned to security Stay government, protecting human rights, chairs under an anaemic fan, Kay was and politics, the tempo of nearby gunfire Listening to a hen Al-Jazeera correspondent and Construction and property prices are preventing piracy at sea and helping the responding to their issues: jobs, corruption, increased and it was reported that what we’d WSomalia-watcher Peter Greste came booming in Mogadishu, while foreign government coordinate aid. Elections are education, human rights, political inclusion heard was a suicide bomb, probably at the group of youth up with soubriquet “the toughest job in embassies and airlines are cautiously slated for 2016. UNSOM is also to put itself and insecurity. He told them he was just UN Common Compound, a few hundred diplomacy”, he wasn’t trying to flatter. opening up. at the service of political mediation efforts into his third week, “meeting people and metres up the road. leaders, in a On June 3, Nick Kay did take up a job On the other side of the scales are the The rest of the day’s tragic and sobering circle of plastic few would relish: as Special Representative remnants of the Al-Shabaab insurgents, events unfolded, the UNSOM team learning of the UN Secretary-General for Somalia cut off from their major sources of income, in shock and disbelief of the loss of a much- chairs under an -- at a time of high hopes but roiling confined mainly to rural areas in the centre loved United Nations colleague and seven uncertainty. and south but with the capacity to plant This is a once in a generation others working with the UN. The heroism anaemic fan, Kay Long notorious for violent anarchy, roadside bombs, and organize murderous of the Somali guards, and the passing of famine and intractable political wrangling, attacks, even in the capital, where over 30 opportunity, and it is your generation four of them was cause for gratitude and was responding Somalia is less than a year into its rebirth as people recently died in an attack on the sorrow. Innocent Somali passers-by also an internationally-recognized member of fledgling judiciary. Al-Shabaab, though were the victims. Our colleagues had been to their issues: the family of nations. fragmenting, still extort ruinous dues the victim of a planned attack which was jobs, corruption, Islamist insurgents have been pushed from communities under their control, to defuse crises, balancing the UN mission’s learning”. Although once a British diplomat, directly aimed at destroying, not building back by African Union forces, relative terrorise local people and disrupt trade and role and relationships between federal he said he wasn’t the cocktail party kind, the new beginnings in Somalia. The UN education, human stability has returned to a large proportion transport. and regional administrations, multiple but had most recently been in Sudan team, gathered at the airport later that day, of the country, foreign investment is The Federal Government meanwhile is international players, including the African and the Democratic Republic of Congo. marked a moment’s silence with bowed rights, political starting to take an interest, and Somalis weak, has only a trickle of its own revenue, Union, neighbouring states and regional Continuing, he said “I’m familiar, very heads. from all over the world are coming back; and faces a formidable set of problems: a grouping, the Intergovernmental Authority familiar, with countries affected by conflict.” Speaking later to the media, SRSG inclusion and the diaspora are visiting, working, investing, political landscape ruined by 22 years of on Development. We all heard a bang – it could have been Kay said the UN team grieved for their testing the waters – sometimes literally, at conflict and riven by ingrained corruption, The new UNSOM is based in an explosion, or something like a big metal colleagues but were undeterred: “We’re here insecurity. the beach. intimidation and extortion, clan-based Mogadishu, where a new UN team gate slamming. to help, and here to stay.”

16 17 t is an enormous pleasure and honour human rights, including by monitoring and Ito be invited to write for the AMISOM reporting on the situation across the country. magazine. After just eight weeks in Somalia UNSOM’s mandate is new and so is our I am already deeply conscious of the way of working. Other than a commitment immense contribution being made by the to joint working with AMISOM, we are men and women of AMISOM to building also breaking new ground by being more peace in Somalia. You, and your brothers present across Somalia (with plans to be in and sisters before you, are heroes. You have Mogadishu, Hargeisa, Garowe, Baidoa and suffered significant losses. Your sacrifices Kismayo this year); by being an “integrated will not be in vain. mission” (i.e. with UNSOA and all parts One of my highest priorities as the new of the UN family working closely towards UN Special Representative of the Secretary- common goals); and by working even General is to deepen and strengthen on the more closely with international partners ground the partnership between the UN in support of the Federal Government and the AU. Ambassador Annadif (SRCC) of Somalia. I attach great importance to and I are determined that our teams should listening and responding to all member work hand in hand on the full range of tasks states and organisations (especially the in our mandates. The challenges in Somalia African Union, Intergovernmental Authority are so extensive that we shall only succeed on Development - IGAD, European Union if we share rather than divide the labour. and the League of Arab States). Working on We have already started regular meetings the ground in Somalia is not easy. Many are of our senior leadership teams. I urge rising to the challenge. But inevitably much colleagues in all fields to join their efforts, work is still done in Nairobi. So UNSOM is be it on human rights, political affairs, also present there. stabilisation, governance issues, strategic Another new aspect of UNSOM’s communications, analysis etc. Somalis need mandate is our relationship to the UN and deserve our collective effort. Support Office for AMISOM (UNSOA). To help us become even closer partners, You are already very familiar with UNSOA it may help if I explain a little about my and the logistical support they provide. I mission. Security Council Resolution 2093, am delighted that as a part of our integrated which mandates AMISOM, also sets out approach, the very able Director of UNSOA, the rationale for the new UN Assistance Amadu Kamara, is now a member of my Mission for Somalia (UNSOM). Resolution senior management team. Once again by 2102 gives its precise mandate. In brief working together I am sure we can achieve I urge colleagues some of its defining characteristics are that much more. this is a mission designed for a new phase Predicting the future is never wise. But in all fields to join in Somalia, which has moved from state I feel confident that Somalia is on the path failure, through a transition last year to a to peace and prosperity and that we all UNSOM and AMISOM: their efforts, be it on phase now of state building. UNSOM is have a historic opportunity in the coming configured to meet the needs of this new months and years to make our own personal human rights, political phase. We are mandated to support peace- contribution to helping Somalis enjoy a affairs, stabilisation, building and reconciliation through using brighter future. We should aim high in our my “good offices”; help build a Federal state efforts. Somalia, Africa and the wider region governance through support for the Constitutional deserve nothing less. Together UNSOM review process, good governance and and AMISOM can and will achieve great United issues, strategic capacity building; assist the Federal things. Thank you for your support and I Government in coordinating international look forward to our joint endeavour. You can communications, assistance, particularly in the security count on me as a true friend and champion for analysis etc. Somalis sector; and help Somalia protect and respect of AMISOM. Peace need and deserve our collective effort. Nicholas Kay is the Special Representative of the Secretary General of the United Nations for Somalia

18 19 he four hour flight to an unknown we got off the plane and were instructed priority, the reason for their presence. Tland was a time of deep meditation to run to the parking lot in single file. Twelve months in Somalia felt like a for everybody sitting silently on board the Meeting our countrymen there was a great decade. But days were moving smoothly and Jordan Airways plane. June 3, 2012 was relief. We immediately boarded armoured each was inaugurated by a prayer for God’s the unforgettable day when I first arrived trucks that carried us to the headquarters protection and a safe return to my family. in Mogadishu as part of the 5th contingent of the Burundi contingent located at the Going out of the base was fun, though A Year in that Burundi had sent to Somalia. National University. one had to be on the lookout for ambushes An old African adage warns that when Peering through the windows as we and improvised explosive devices. In my Somalia: the neighbor’s house burns, yours is next rumbled across the city in the sweltering job as the contingent’s public information A implying that you have to help extinguish the fire before it reaches your own. In line with this, Burundi was the second country Going out of the base was fun, though to answer the call of African Union and the International Community to contribute one had to be on the lookout for ambushes Peacekeeper’s troops to the African Mission in Somalia and improvised explosive devices. which is helping extinguish the two-decade old conflict that has ravaged the country. Having ourselves recently emerged vehicles, I could see some Somalis officer, I would escort international out of civil conflict with the help of standing on the road side and waving journalists visiting the mission. Many of friends, neighbors and the International hands on our passage. This was another them wondered how an under-resourced By Cpt. Ernest Nimubona Community, we viewed this as an reassuring sign. Though I could not go AMISOM had succeeded where more Tale opportunity to demonstrate our gratitude out and shake their hands, it was my first powerful and better equipped armies by assisting a sister country. Since 2007 introduction to the people I would be had failed. “Because they fought without thousands of our soldiers have taken the serving as an AMISOM peacekeeper. Africans,” I would respond. “Today, with our same journey I was on. At the time, AMISOM was expanding committed and brave soldiers and help with Coming in to land, we all felt out of Mogadishu in support of the logistics, how can we be defeated?” apprehensive. The uncertainty grew when political roadmap which called for Somalia The Somalis I met were very friendly. to complete the transition to permanent I had the most memorable time during a BELOW: government within the year. The concept basketball match with Somali soldiers. It Cpt. Ernest Nimubona (right) author of the article of operations required the capture of key was a world away from the Somalia of our pictured during his deployment to Somalia. towns like Kismayo, Baidoa, Marka and imagination, where explosions are never Beletweyn from the al Shabaab terror far away. Our soldiers were touched by the group. Burundi took the lead in the south- friendliness of the open-hearted Somalis. west and was also helping the Ugandan Cheering ladies waited impatiently for the contingent in Middle and Lower Shabelle. end of the game before invading the court in Marka was taken in August. I was with their colorful dresses to dribble the ball and the vanguard elements and was pleasantly then joining the rest in the reception hall. surprised by the warm welcome accorded Food, drink and conversation enlivened the to AMISOM by the population. There occasion followed by dancing to Somali and were no camps for the internally displaced Burundi folk songs. like you find in Mogadishu and after just In the contingent are former belligerents an hour, I was surrounded by a crowd of who fought on opposite sides of the curious and friendly young people. I felt Burundian civil war. It is amazing that safe and comfortable as I attempted to today, they are part of one body under the teach them some English. command of one man. They fight together Watching soldiers shovel sand into bags and for each other. It is a lesson that I think to build a defense wall in a strange place we can teach our Somali brothers. transported me back to the time during Every farmer assesses his work by the the Burundi civil war, when I would stay volume of the harvest. After more than in a bunker for days. The life of a soldier six years in the mission, the soldiers of the is not easy and one at times has to spend Burundi contingent are extremely proud of the night in the company of dangerous having contributed to helping give Somalia snakes; even they feel sorry for the sorry its best chance for peace in a generation. fellow sometimes and keep their poison to Our success, alongside fellow Africans and themselves. the international community has proven The diet out in the bush consists of that if humanity stands together, nothing is dry rations. Before deploying to Baidoa, impossible under the sky. the Burundi Contingent Commander, Col. Bigirimana Geard, told his troops to behave like men of heart. “Think of Cpt. Ernest Nimubona was the Burundi your duty, not your stomach.” He knew Contingent’s Public Information Officer. He that they would spend almost a year on a has since completed his tour of duty and dry rations but supporting peace was the returned to Bujumbura.

20 21 Slam Dunk: Basketball Makes a Comeback in Somalia

Food,Dance,

ntil a few years ago, with the Al Basketball: UQaeda linked al Shabaab terror group Mogadishu controlling large sections of Somalia, A Game in sports and other forms of entertainment riends, a game of basketball, plenty Somali team, locally known as Horseed, and Burundian songs and simply have a were forbidden. However, since the Fof food and good music. This could had won the first game a month prior good time! We have a hard time battling Somali national security forces, with be a party anywhere but it was June in with a score of 63-53. But there are no the Al-Shabaab threat together so why the support of AMISOM forced the Mogadishu. Once the scene of daily hard feelings here. can’t we enjoy together?” he quips. extremists out of most major population gun battles, the seaside city is enjoying “It is so nice playing with our The game has attracted a good centres, sport has been making a its longest period of relative peace in Burundian brothers. The game is a number of fans with the Somali army comeback. over two decades. True, dangers still source of relaxation and fitness for us. even bringing a girls cheerleading team Today, 16-year-old Hamsa Abdullahi abound. But the routing of Al-Qaeda- It has also given us the opportunity that roars and claps whenever they made Hussein is not only free to walk the affiliated Al-Shabaab militants from to make friends with the Burundian a fancy move or scored a basket. streets of Mogadishu in relative safety, but recognised by the Ministry of Sports and national team in the 70’s and tried to keep fixed positions within the Somali peacekeepers and share a light moment Not to be outdone, the Burundian also dreams of becoming a professional funded by the private sector. the sport alive after the outbreak of civil war. capital two years ago has heralded a with them, we are so grateful for their basketball team also has its supporters athlete. Said Mohammed Sheikh and several “We’ve come through very difficult times. new sense of hope among Somalis and hospitality and support,” Hussein drawn from their fellow soldiers urging “[Previously] I didn’t have anything other Dekkeda players are regularly called up Al Shabaab wanted people to participate spurred an economic boom as many Mohamed Ahmed, one of the Horseed them forward. The mood is festive. to do and I was very depressed. When I to the country’s national team. He says the in Jihad rather than play or even wear return to rebuild. players said after the game. Afterwards, both sets of players started playing basketball, I really liked it. sport can help heal the country. “Basketball shorts but we still managed to hold some Anyway, back to the game. It’s “Somalia and Burundi share a embrace and together with their fans sit It makes me happy.” has a role in building peace. Our country has competitions. Girls, however, weren’t even at the Jalle Siyad military academy, long history. They helped train for down for a sumptuous lunch. The court in the Abdi Aziz district of been through a lot, and it is better that the allowed to come to the court. We’ve had a lot currently used as a base for Burundian us 12 air force pilots in 1974 and “This is my eighth day in Mogadishu the Somali capital Mogadishu, belongs youth stay busy with things like basketball. of problems, but there’s a huge change now. peacekeepers. It’s the second friendly we are now peacekeepers here. We and I can already see how great this to Mogadishu’s Dekkeda basketball club, It helps us to forget. Many of our friends are Both men and women can come and play.” match pitting between them and a team organized these games in order to country used to be,” Colonel Sosthene which runs free clinics every day for the into smoking and are in militias. We can use And with peace returning, Somalia is re- from the Somali National Army. Played strengthen the friendship between our Ndereyimana says wistfully as he bids likes of Hamsa and her friends, and other basketball to get them out,” he says. establishing its continental pre-eminence in under the soaring Mogadishu midday two countries and forces,” said Major farewell to the Somalis. “It is a real local youth who wish to learn the game. “Somalia used to be one of the leading the sport. Earlier this year, its national team sun, the tight contest is over in an hour Nimubona Ernest, the Burundian privilege to play a part in helping such a Dekkeda is the top team in the city’s teams in Africa,” says Dekkeda’s coach, participated in a regional tournament and with the Burundians winning by 56 Public Information Officer. “After the wonderful people,” he adds as he waves 13 -member association, which is fully Hassan Ahmed Gelleh, who played for the beat Kenya and Burundi. baskets to 47. It is sweet revenge. The games we eat lunch, dance to Somali to the Somali players and their fans. 22 23 Find us online: www.amisom-au.org

amisom.somalia amisomsomalia amisom.somalia issuu.com/amisom amisomsomalia

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