www.amisom-au.org Issue 13 Aug - Dec 2013

AMISOM Expands AU Welcomes Increase in Troops

Celebrating 50 Years of African Unity Contents 2 SRCC Message

4 News Roundup Message 7 Expansion of AMISOM: Just the First Step from 8 The Mogadishu Florist: Replacing Fear With Flowers the 10 AMAN Radio: Empowering the Women of Somalia

Editorial by SpecialSRCC Representative, Ambassador Mahamat Saleh Annadif 12 Kismayo Field Marshall: 30 Years and Still Going Strong

14 Change of Guard: A Term Well Served elcome to the 13th edition of the in Europe and North America. The Somalia, and the Gender Office is helping WAMISOM Review. participation of the diaspora is critical to give voice to the voiceless victims of 16 Somalia’s Top Military Chief Declares Military Revival We have come to the end of yet to Somalia’s re-emergence and stability. such assaults. another momentous year for AMISOM Their remittances back home are not This issue also spotlights AMISOM’s and look forward to the beginning only Somalia’s largest source of both activities in the Hiiran region where the 18 A Thousand Words: AMISOM Engages the Diaspora of what is likely to be another year of hard currency and “foreign” direct Djiboutian contingent has been extremely progress in Somalia. In this issue, we assistance, but the returning members active, despite its limitations in terms 20 Enhancing AMISOM’s Image in TCCs and PCCs take a look at the UN Security Council of the diaspora also bring with them of numbers and equipment, not only in authorization in November of the much- needed skills in commerce and training members of the national security expansion of AMISOM’s strength by governance. It is thus crucial to keep forces, but also in fostering reconciliation 22 AMISOM Troops Intensify Foot Patrols Around the Sectors 4000 troops and what this means for the them abreast of developments within between competing clans and militias in international efforts to stabilize Somalia the country and to address any concerns the region. 24 I Too Am A Soldier…. and combat international terrorists they may have. The latest in a series I take this opportunity to send my within its borders. of AMISOM engagement events was condolences to the victims of November’s As the AMISOM Review notes, held over two days at the beginning of cowardly attack on a police station there 26 Preserving the Past:Digitization of Radio Mogadishu the increase will allow AMISOM to October in Minneapolis, Minnesota, which killed at least 19 people including transition from the defensive posture it 28 Peace is the Ultimate Gift to the People of Somalia had adopted following more than two years of expansion and consolidation, to enabling the Somali National Security 30 Football Comes Home to Somalia Forces secure more areas of south- The participation of the diaspora is critical to central Somalia from the Al Qaeda- 32 2013; A Year in Review affiliated extremist group, Al Shabaab. Somalia’s re-emergence and stability The two-year, 3 battalion surge will also be crucial to creating the space for the Somali state to continue to rebuild its forces, extend its authority, USA. A full report on the event is one soldier from the Djibouti contingent deliver services to the people and work contained in the pages of this issue. as well as innocent civilians and officers towards a constitutional referendum We also feature AMISOM’s initiatives from the Somali Police Force. Such Find us online: and elections in 2016. As Somalia is able in helping Somalia tackle the spectra attacks illustrate the need to keep up the to progressively take charge of its own of lawlessness and especially sexual pressure on the Al Shabaab and to deny Managing Editor: Eloi Yao amisom.somalia security, so AMISOM will be able to exploitation and abuse of its women them the opportunity to plot and plan Spokesperson: Lt. Col. Ali Aden Houmed amisom.somalia amisomsomalia draw down its troops with a view to an and girls. The Police and the Civilian atrocities in the Somali hinterland. It is a Design & Layout: Vikki Keingati eventual withdrawal from Somalia. Components have been active in cause to which AMISOM is committed Photography: Over the last year, AMISOM has teaching basic self-defense skills to and we will continue to stand shoulder to Stuart Price & Tobin Jones | AU/UN-IST issuu.com/amisom amisomsomalia vimeo.com/auunistnews also carried out a series of events female members of neighborhood watch shoulder with our Somali brothers and Email: [email protected] or to engage with the Somali diaspora teams from the different regions of sisters until it is accomplished. [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 and the UN Office Jubba Reconciliation Efforts for the Coordination of November 4th 2013 – A Three day reconciliation conference for the Jubba Humanitarian Affairs for communities was officially opened by Somali Prime Minister Abdi Farah Shirdoon in Mogadishu who expressed his optimism of achieving a lasting solution for the Somalia concluded the first problems of the Gedo and Jubba regions. News The 200 delegates discussed ways to enhance on-going peace building and Somalia United Nations reconciliation efforts, how to increase security and re-integrate armed groups and Humanitarian Civil-Military extend the fight against terrorism, and provide for economic progress and social development. Roundup Coordination Course The communiqué signed by all delegations committed the parties to continued reconciliation, an inclusive Interim Jubba Administration, amalgamating all local November 30th 2013 - AMISOM in partnership forces into the Somali National Army and to working alongside the Somali Federal with the United Nations Office for the Coordination Government and AMISOM to clear Al-Shabaab from the remainder of the region. of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and United The participants agreed to fully accept the Addis Ababa Agreement of August AMISOM holds a Leadership Capacity Nations Support Office for AMISOM (UNSOA) 2013 and to strengthen the role of civil society in the Jubba regions. Building Conference for Somali Youth concluded the first Somalia specific United Nations Humanitarian, Civil-Military course. December 9th 2013 - The Federal on the role of the youth in the The course aimed at promoting the Government of Somalia (FGS) implementation of the ‘Six Pillar humanitarian-military coordination and improving African Union AMISOM Head visits supported by AMISOM concluded Policy’ of Somalia namely Supremacy the effectiveness of international relief operations in a three-day leadership capacity of the Law and Good Governance; Somalia. The five day course primarily focused on Peace and Security Beledweyne building conference for the Somali Economic Recovery-Livelihood the use of foreign military and civil defense assets youth in Kampala. and Economic Infrastructure; Peace in support of humanitarian activities, as well as Council visit to October 15th 2013-The Special Representative of the Chairperson of the The three-day conference Building-Social Reconciliation improving the collaboration between AMISOM and Somalia African Union Commission for Somalia (SRCC), Ambassador Mahamat provided an interactive forum through building bridges of trust; civilian organizations in complex emergencies. Saleh Annadif accompanied by Senior AMISOM leadership in Somalia between AMISOM, the FGS and Service Delivery-Health, Education October 25th 2013 - The Peace and visited AU forces stationed in Beledweyne’s Hiraan region. The delegation the Somali youth to establish and and Environment; International Security Council (PSC) of the African was received by AMISOM’s Sector 4 Contingent Commander Colonel maintain effective communication Relations-building collaborative Union paid its first field visit to Somalia. Osman Doubad and the local administration. between youth groups and the relations and polishing the national UNSC approves The council members were received in The visit to the region which coincided with Eidul Adha celebrations government on policy awareness. image; and the Unity and Integrity of request for Mogadishu by the Special Representative was to get first-hand information on the overall progress of the forces in The discussions focused the country. of the Chairperson of the African Union the region. Ambassador Annadif commended the troops for their relentless additional Commission for Somalia, Ambassador effort in mobilising support during flooding, the subsequent cholera Mahamat Saleh Annadif and held outbreak, clan mediation troops meetings with the Somali President H.E efforts and the securing of AMISOM and Stakeholders conclude Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. key facilities in the region. The Commissioner of the AU Peace The delegation also had a four-day Gender Workshop on and Security Council and Djiboutian an opportunity to tour ambassador to the African Union, H.E. the Lama Galaay military Strengthening Somalia’s judicial Capacity Mohamed Idriss Farah said deliberations training camp where the with the President raised important recently deployed AMISOM to address Gender Based Violence issues that would be further discussed in police have been conducting Addis Ababa. The meeting also discussed training for the Somali the judicial systems to November 11th 2013 - The United Nations the progress that Somalia has made in Police Force. ensure that they uphold Security Council authorized a temporary surge recovering from decades of anarchy. and respect women’s for the African Union peacekeeping force in The PSC is the AU’s standing decision- rights, was attended Somalia. Troop numbers will increase from the making body, responsible for the by representatives current 17, 731 to 22,126. The surge also includes maintenance of continental peace and from the Federal an increase in logistical support. The council security and comprises 15 members, AMISOM concludes a three-day Government of Somalia unanimously adopted the resolution and extended elected by the AU Assembly of Head of working in the judicial the deployment of the AU Mission in Somalia States and Government. CIMIC conference institutions, AMISOM (AMISOM) until 31 October 2014. September 19th 2013 - AMISOM concluded a three-day conference promoting and representatives The Council underlined that the increase in force humanitarian civil-military coordination and civilian protection. from civil society strength would provide short-term enhancement For the first time, AMISOM Civil-Military Coordination (CIMIC) officers Djibouti, December 5th – The organizations. of AMISOM’s military capacity, after which a from all sectors came together in Mogadishu to share experiences and plan how African Union Mission in Somalia The workshop was officially decrease in the Mission’s force strength will be best to implement the mission’s mandate and enhance cooperation with civilians. (AMISOM) in collaboration with opened by Djibouti Minister considered. The council also endorsed the UN’s UNSOA supported the conference, with UN OCHA, UNSOM and other UN the Federal Government of Somalia of Gender H.E. Hasna Barkat. recommendation that the Somali National Army agencies delivering thematic sessions, leading on case studies that prompted and the civil society concluded a In her opening remarks she (SNA) be provided with “a package of non-lethal lively discussions on civil-military coordination. workshop on strengthening Somalia’s praised the participants for their support which includes transport, food, fuel, shelter The conference analyzed the current situation in the four sectors of South judicial capacity to address Gender commitment in ensuring that the and medical support through a trust fund”. Central Somalia and explored ways in which to enrich cooperation with Based Violence. rights of women are respected and The resolution comes in response to the request civilian organizations. Focusing on civil-military coordination, the conference The workshop which aimed at protected, and reiterated Djibouti’s made by the African Union Peace and Security also looked at issues affecting vulnerable groups in the complex operating focusing on building the capacity of support to the cause. Council (AUPSC) in its communiqué dated 10th environment of Somalia, especially the issue of gender-based violence and the October 2013. protection of children’s rights. 4 5 AMISOM Civil Affairs Unit hands over vocational training school to Somali government August 23rd 2013 - The civil affairs unit handed over a vocational training school located in Mogadishu’s Wadajir District to the Federal Government of Somalia. The school built with support from the Danish Government consists of eight classrooms, an administration block and ablution facilities. The school will provide vocational training to over 360 Somali students in a single intake. Expansion The handover of the school was attended by the President of the Federal Government of Somalia, H.E.Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and of The Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC), Ambassador Mahamat Saleh Annadif. AMISOM: The AMISOM civilian component has the primary role of assisting the Federal Government of Somalia in re-establishing functioning state institutions and delivering services to the Somali people. Just the First Step AMISOM responds to women needs in Baidoa AMISOM troop n November this year, the UN Security lives, are an indicator of this. countries deploying troops and Somali women from Baidoa town had reason rotations ICouncil approved the expansion of Thus the resolution to reinforce equipment to AMISOM shoulder the to smile after AMISOM hosted a two-day free the authorized AMISOM force limit by AMISOM could not have been more costs of that deployment, backing from medical center to women in the region who in the a further 4000 troops. It is impossible welcome. It is important to note bilateral and multi-lateral partners in past have had to go as far as Mogadishu, Hargeisa to overstate the importance of this that the temporary 18-24 month affording support from AU countries and Galkaayo to seek medical care. development. As a joint United Nations- surge in troops is designed to expand will be crucial. Dr Asha Omar, a Somali gynecologist working African Union review of AMISOM had the space and opportunity for the The AU mission in Somalia also at the AMISOM Out-Patient Department (OPD) noted, following a more than two-year Somali government to reestablish welcomes the UN Security Council in Mogadishu visited Baidoa’s AMISOM hospital advance across the country, AMISOM state authority across South-Central undertaking to provide logistical as part of her obstetrics-gynecology practice. had helped the Somali National Security Somalia, rebuild its security forces, support to front line units of the Somali Accompanied by two female nurses, Dr Asha Forces to push out the Al Qaeda-affiliated deliver basic services to the Somali National Army in joint operations provided antenatal care including hi-tech CT scan Many of the troops serving under the African Union Mission in Al Shabaab militants from most of people and prepare for a constitutional with AMISOM. This includes food services for expectant mothers as well as offering Somalia (AMISOM) have ended their tour of duty and have handed Somalia’s major urban areas. AMISOM referendum and elections by 2016. and water, fuel, transport, tents and free gynecological consultation, treatment and over to their successors who will continue the mission serving had, however, reached the limit of its The achievement of these benchmarks in-theatre medical evacuation. This check-ups that the women desperately needed. alongside their Somali National Army colleagues. operational strength and could not would set the stage for beginning of a will go a long way to supplementing Due to the poor state of medical facilities in The troops are mandated to fight against the Al Qaeda linked al undertake further expansion without drawdown of AMISOM with a view to AMISOM efforts to beef up the the country coupled with cultural barriers that Shabaab group. The extremist group has already lost a string of towns endangering the gains already made. its eventual exit from Somalia. capacity of Somalia’s national forces to discourage women from seeking help for their and cities they once controlled in South-Central Somalia; which has Though severely weakened, the Al Also it is important to note that eventually take over responsibility for ailments, Somali women have borne the full paved the way for improved security and an internationally recognised Shabaab extremists are taking advantage the Security Council has reiterated security in the country. brunt of the prolonged civil war and together with Federal government. of the relative freedom they had in the the need for the deployment of force Though widely perceived as a children are the worst affected by the conflict. After 13 months of service, the men and women went back to vast Somali countryside to regroup, plan enablers and multipliers, in particular successful example of an African their countries; replaced by colleagues who will now serve their and execute attacks against civilians the twelve military helicopters solution to an African problem, own 12-month tour. The rotations also included senior AMISOM authorized in previous AMISOM continues to rely heavily on leadership in the various sectors. The current Sector 1 commander is resolutions. These are financial support originating outside Brig. General Dick Olum who replaced Brig Michael Ondoga, Brig crucial to enabling the continent. This support continues General Walter Raria has taken over from Brig General Anthony ...Africa is now home to the world’s AMISOM to secure its to be very welcome, but given that Ngere’s in Sector 2, Sector 3 commander Colonel John Habarugira supply lines in order Africa is now home to the world’s has stepped in for Colonel Gerald Bigirimana and in Sector 4, Col fastest growing economies, the to impede Al Shabaab’s fastest growing economies, the move Ousman Doubad continues to command the sector. move is now on African countries resupply and its is now on African countries to begin AMISOM currently boast of troops from Sierra Leone, Burundi, freedom of movement. to shoulder more of the financial Djibouti, Kenya as well as Uganda. to begin to shoulder more of the The extra troops and burden for the mission, particularly via financial burden for the mission... assets are urgently un-caveated contributions to the UN- needed and though it is established AMISOM Trust Fund. August 6th 2013 - Somalia marked the second anniversary since the liberation of the yet unclear where these As the primary instrument of the Two-year capital city Mogadishu from Al-Qaeda-affiliated terrorists Al-Shabaab. The expulsion of will come from, several international effort to help stabilize Al-Shabaab from fixed positions in the city was a significant strategic achievement and set in cities within the country and in countries across the continent have and secure Somalia, AMISOM must anniversary of the stage for other successes across the country. the regions. The recent bombings in expressed a willingness to contribute be adequately resourced and equipped. The city has since experienced resurgence in all aspects of political, economic and Beledweyne and Mogadishu as well as to AMISOM. Given the fact that under The Security Council Resolution is a the withdrawal socio-cultural life. Shops have re-opened, markets and homes are being rebuilt. Many the bloody attack on the Westgate mall in the “Burundi model” borrowed from great first step in this regard and it will Somalis are opting to return home while the number of commercial flights in and out of Nairobi, all of which claimed dozens of the 2003-2004 AU Mission in Burundi, not be the last. of Al Shabaab Mogadishu is on the increase. Securing the capital city was the first phase of the original AMISOM concept of from Mogadishu operations. AMISOM has since completed the second phase which included helping the 6 government secure major towns like Kismayo, Baidoa and Beledweyne. 7 now found a chemical from Nairobi which preserves the flowers for up to 6months. “I have a small nursery within the flower shop where I observe the effects by exposing the flowers to natural humidity.” Mogadishu The love for greenery and Florist: flowers has also inspired Mohamed to open the first national park in the capital city. He wants this to Replacing be a community funded project, “I believe if we come together as a community we could easily make this happen. I want this to Fear with be something we have done for ourselves and hence have something to be proud of as a nation.” Mohamed is also a philanthropist and donates to the Internally Flowers Displaced People’s camps through his businesses. “I want to set up something which helps the youth whose lives has been stolen by the years of anarchy”. Mohamed could not end his conversation without sending out a message to his diaspora counterparts. “I believe this is a good time in Somalia and it’s an even better time for the Somali Diaspora to come back and be a part of this new era of the Somali history and help rebuild our nation. Mogadishu is experiencing peace.”

“I believe this is a good time in Somalia and it’s an even better fter more than 20 years of war, a small florist shop flourishes. to get Mogadishu back to its green With the newly felt liberation in brave decision to move back to his time for the Somali Aone would think romance would Established in June 2013 by Mohamed scenery similar to the pre-war era. Mogadishu acquired by government motherland. He started by opening be dead in a country like Somalia. Mohamoud Sheikh and his sister, “Mogadishu is now seen to be dry forces supported by AMISOM, the city a launderette in the country’s capital Diaspora to come However, the opening of a new florist Amber Gardens Florist is the center of and desert-like. But there was a time is slowly getting back to normalcy with after realizing the huge gap in the warmth and color where we had palm trees and greenery vibrant music being played around the market for such a service, and then back and be a with the beautiful growing around the city. It is sad that city and TV shows revamped. later decided to open a florist with part of this new flowers that line its they are not there anymore”. “This feels like a good time to his sister. “This feels like a good time to walls. Somalia has had an interminable introduce flowers and color back into Due to the dry essence and lack era of the Somali Mohamed and culture of nomadic presence from the Somali community,” says bright-eyed of resources, it is still not possible to introduce flowers and color back his sister decided the herdsmen leaving their livestock Mohamed as he smiles. grow certain flowers such as roses in history and help to combine their and camels behind to flatter their Since the Islamic insurgents were the city. Therefore, Mohamed usually into the Somali community” love for the courtships with poetry and love banished from the capital Mogadishu, imports the more sophisticated rebuild our nation. great outdoors songs to his companions. The culture the city has seen an influx of new flowers from the neighboring East Mogadishu is and garden promoted romance, warmth and innovative business flourishing. Pizza African countries. shop has revived the romance in the establishment with helping revive courtship. However, decades of civil parlors, museums, child play centers and Also after undertaking some experiencing capital city Mogadishu. courtship and landscaping back into war and Islamic insurgencies banning gyms are among the many. market research, Mohamed realized Tucked in a building in the bustling the streets of Somalia. He admits that things such as television and music Mohamed was born in Italy and that his customers would only opt for peace” street of Makkah al Mukkarrahma, his goal for opening the shop was gradually took away from it. raised in Tanzania before making the fresh flowers if they lasted. He has

8 9 To fulfill her and other young girls’ dreams, Farhia and her team have created programmes that give women in the Somali community a chance to voice their opinions and feel empowered

some little way, I want to help my society by highlighting their needs and celebrating AMAN Radio: “I want to speak for the disadvantaged and their accomplishments.” In a country which was largely those whose voices never receive attention” inaccessible for international journalists during two decades of civil war, Somalia’s Empowering the journalists were the only eyes and the ears Farhia always dreamed of working of shows which include call-in shows, for the rest of the world, witnessing what in the media industry. “I used to see my debates and cooking shows. They also was happening during Somalia’s darkest father listening to the radio and wonder discuss a wide variety of issues including days. of Somalia where the voices were coming from. As I youth, health, their local communities In recent years, the country still ranks as n an unremarkable buildingWomen along the Aman Radio seeks to fill. complement by providing graduates an got older, I discovered the voices behind as well as current affairs in the country one of the most dangerous for journalists Ibustling Makka al Mukarramah Road, The station was established in March opportunity to practice their new skills. The the Radio and TV and knew this was what and around the world. “We have a show to work in. Last year, up to 19 journalists a group of women are intently focused 2012 although the ideas and planning had radio also has its own center offering young I wanted to do and that this was a chance called ‘Hoolada Haweenka’ meaning ‘The were killed while dozens have been targeted on their computer screens, playing and been in the pipeline for over six years prior. women with an academic media background of also making a difference in people’s works of Women’. On this show we discuss for their work. Those working for Aman replaying sound pieces. Somali music Because of the level of insecurity caused by a number of training courses including, lives.” the different careers Somali women are undaunted: “Well it’s the same as all plays softly through the speakers as the the presence of al- Shabaab, the founders Journalism, photography and filmography. To fulfill her and other young girls’ have embarked on such as civil servants, the other journalists, sometimes there are presenter fits her headset and starts the decided to hold it off until Mogadishu Starting off as a trainer and programme dreams, Farhia and her team have created entrepreneurs, teachers, nurses and certain risks when it comes to covering show. Welcome to Aman Radio, the first became a safe place. manager, Farhiya Farah Roble rose through programmes that give women in the doctors among other careers. news in certain places but other than that all-female run radio station in Mogadishu. Launched by Nasib Information and the ranks to become the station’s director. Somali community a chance to voice Anisa Abdullahi, Radio Aman Editor it’s fine. I live and work in Mogadishu and Prolonged conflict has left Somalia’s Media Training Center for women with “I joined Aman radio in late 2007 and was their opinions and feel empowered: “At explains: “I chose journalism because I the security has improved a lot. It’s much women as some of the most disadvantaged financial support from active female involved from the planning stages of the Aman radio we strive to empower women want to amplify the voices of my society safer than it used to be.” in the world. In Mogadishu’s internally Somali journalists in Finland, the radio’s radio.” she says that in the beginning AMAN by giving them a platform to voice their and especially those of Somali women. The impact Aman Radio has already displaced camps, rape is rife and domestic mission is to raise the profile of Somali started as a training center for women in opinions, concerns and comments about I want to speak for the disadvantaged made means these ladies will continue violence is rampant. Despite condemnation women by discussing topics related to media. It was during this time that her and what is going on in Somalia politically, and those whose voices never receive to provide a voice for Somali women of acts of violence against women and them as well as providing media training to her team realized the huge gap in the Somali economically and socially.” She adds that attention.” The news editor says Aman regardless of the risk they face everyday. efforts by aid agencies and civil society to get more women qualified. media. “With no outlet focusing solely on this put emphasis on women’s education is dedicated to social issues and rarely To their listeners, Aman radio is a group curb their marginalisation, one voice has The center offers young women women, we decided to work on concepts to and helping women excel and pursue their discusses politics. “We focus on the of inspiring young women fulfilling their been conspicuously absent; the voice of the interested in media a number of courses create a radio station produced by women desired careers. community, women, healthcare, education dreams, who stand as role models and a Somali women themselves. This is what in journalism, which Aman Radio will targeting women,” explains Farhiya. Aman Radio broadcasts a variety and the rebuilding of the country. So in real future for women across Somalia. 10 11 Kismayo Airport Veteran t’s a bright morning in Kismayo, a at the Kismayo airport. Officially, there is “I have been Iport city in southern Somalia. Adan no employee. Following Somalia’s descent Mohamed slowly emerges from a mud- into anarchy and civil war, the civil here for so walled house, his orange reflector vest aviation authority was rendered useless long and I’ve clashing with the determined sun. It’s and staff fled the airport. another working day, similar to the last But not Adan, high school graduate, persevered 30 years he has worked as an airport he chose to stick there and in the two because I marshaller at the Kismayo International decades of incessant violence, he has Airport. single-handedly run the operations at the love my job” “A marshaller is someone who guides airport and continued working without the aircraft when it lands and leads it to pay since the collapse of the central the docking area,” explains the father of government. four who handles an average of fourteen He controls the movement of aircrafts flights a week. Adan is the only employee to and from their designated docking area

using a simple hand-held paddle to relay delivery and security sectors as well as because I love my job.” signals and guide the pilots. local institutional development. The father of four maintains this Adan explains the airport has not There is hope that many of the badly- dedication since his early days in the been the easiest to work from adding damaged buildings will get much-needed job. He worked as a trainee at the that, “Even today, with flights in and out renovation soon. Since 1991, little work airport during the regime of the central every day, Adan is effectively a one-man- has been done there due to lack of funds government and credits two men who band. There is no airport authority or any representation from civil aviation.” Kismayo Airport’s control tower facilities are basic at best. So it’s up to “Even today, with flights in and out every day, the marshaller to make sure every plane Adan is effectively a one-man-band.” takes off and lands safely: ‘’There are challenges,” he says. “That is expected because this is a country that has been without law and order for a long time.” and stability in the country. Adan has worked as air traffic controller and ground The Airport is located in Kismayo, made the best of what he has been able to marshal respectively with his motivation. the capital of the Lower Jubba region find and constructed his own tools. They encouraged him. “I learnt from in Somalia. It is approximately 14 km “There is no one to complain to, so them,” he says. “By the time the war broke from the city. Following the outbreak sometime I may as well get on with out and the government collapsed I was of the civil war, the airport was at the finding solutions to this problem already very experienced.” After his two center of heavy fighting, quickly closed because am the only one.” Determined mentors left, he took up the mantel: “I down and its buildings badly damaged. to carry on his pioneering mission, he never left even for a day. Despite all the Kismayo Airport was officially brought continues without financial or material challenges, I have remained here. I cannot under the Interim Jubba Administration support, single-handedly keeping start to tell you about all the problems.’’ in August 2013. It has been agreed that airport operational. On this profession, Adan continues to hope that Somalia the management of the facility will he says, “It is what I studied. Anyone will be able to stand on its own two feet be transferred to the Somali Federal who is trained for a profession loves again one day. Until that day, he will Government after six months. Revenue that profession and even if there are continue to contribute in the only way he and resources generated from the airport challenges, the passion is still there. I have can and keep Kismayo airport running will also be allocated to Jubaland’s service been here for so long and I’ve persevered and the flights safely coming in and out.

12 13 Dhobley and captured Kismayo as well to come back and rebuild the nation. We In order to move forward from the Change as moving to Beledweyne. have new hotels, commercial centers and current phase, following a request from It was during General Gutti’s tenure the security is convenient for businesses AMISOM command, the UN Security of that significant political progress took who have extended their work hours past Council approved an increase in troop place with the Transitional Federal sunset,” explains Gen. Gutti. numbers for AMISOM as well as a support Guard: Government coming to an end and the In the years since their initial package for the Somali National Army. This A Term establishment of the first internationally deployment, African Union forces have will allow AMISOM now to stretch further recognized government in twenty years. been a constant feature in the news as and clear beyond the boundaries they have In August 2012, elders representing they have brought large swathes of the been holding as well as continue to provide support and training to their Somali counterparts. In the past year, Lt. Gen Andrew Well Served Gutti has worked closely with the Somali “When I came to Somalia, I knew the battle community. Whenever travelling or was going to be a complicated one but I was visiting newly liberated areas, the Force Commander has consulted the elders who prepared for the war and so were the troops are instrumental in the Somali community. The FC explained the importance of civilian and immediately we hit the ground running” and military engagement as a vital part of any mission and hopes that the new leadership will continue engaging with the Somali people. all the clans in Somalia nominated 275 country under legitimate government While reflecting on his time in Somalia, members of Parliament. The MPs elected control. In recent months, this tempo has Lt. Gen. Gutti summarizes his advice for the a Speaker before electing a President in slowed and analysts have claimed this has incoming Force Commander, Lt. Gen Silas September the same year. renewed Al Shabaab’s resolve to intensify Ntigurirwa; urging him to “continue with Behind the scenes during this attacks. the momentum and rid Al Shabaab from momentous period for the country, “There are many phases of war. Once Somalia.” AMISOM’s main challenge was new areas are liberated, we need time He remains optimistic about the providing a conducive environment for to consolidate what we have attained, mission’s prospects: “The increase in the ongoing work, including providing organize the population while the troop numbers and force enablers such as security for multiple venues, actors and government comes in,” explains Gen. helicopters will enable us to move to new events. Gutti. “We can’t just move immediately areas more effectively”. In the months since, confidence in because this risks what we have gained. Looking back on his time in Somalia, the AMISOM’s work and optimism in the We are not giving Al Shabaab time to former Force Commander admits he’ll look country’s future has encouraged many reorganize; in fact they are still in shock back at it nostalgically. ‘For this country Somalis living abroad to return back and wherever they are right now, they’re which has become my second home, I only home: “The Somali diaspora continue still on the losing side.” hope for the best’.

hen the outgoing Lt. Gen Andrew General Gutti took over command of the remit to establish a presence in the WGutti took command of the the AU forces in Somalia on the 3rd of four AMISOM sectors set out in its own “For this African Union Mission in Somalia May 2012. He arrived at a time when the strategic concept of Operations. The in May 2012, it was a crucial time for AU Mission in Somalia was increasing AU troops were authorized to take all country Somalia’s history and the mission. While its troop strength to 17,731 from the necessary measures in those sectors, in which has the Al Qaeda-affiliated terror group Al then 12,000 and when three additional coordination with the Somali security Shabaab had withdrawn from Somalia, it countries joined the mission. forces, to reduce the threat posed by become still maintained a significant presence in “When I joined it was only Uganda Al-Shabaab and other armed opposition my second the country’s hinterlands. and Burundi but a few months later, groups in order to establish conditions for Taking the battle to the insurgents Djibouti, Kenya and Sierra Leone joined effective governance country-wide. home, I only in Somalia was a challenge even for the the mission” adding that the main Existing Ugandan and Burundian highly experienced former commandant challenge was bringing all these countries forces continued with the battle in hope for the of the Ugandan Senior Command and with completely different military Mogadishu while the additional troops best” Staff and College (SCSC): “When I doctrines together to serve under one deployed to the different sectors of came to Somalia, I knew the battle was mission. Kismayo, Beledweyne and Baidoa. going to be a complicated one but I The AMISOM frontline was at The troops scored a string of strategic was prepared for the war and so were Mogadishu University on the road to wins including opening the very the troops and immediately we hit the Afgooye. United Nation Security Council significant 241 KM Baidoa-Mogadishu ground running”. Resolution 2036 gave the commander road. The troops also moved from 14 15 Somalia’s top militarychief declares militaryrevival

ine months ago, Major General easy feat. After 22 years of quasi non- other Somalis, General Elmi fled Somalia ago to stop the sale of weapons to feel they have a sense of responsibility NDahir Adan Elmi was appointed to existence, the military is a fragmented and relocated to Boston in the United warlords. General Dahir says the move to their country and for the first time, one of the toughest jobs. He was selected combination of older trained generals States of America. In 2012, he made will help the army to better equip itself. we can easily relocate the soldiers across to head the Somalia National Army. and raw untested recruits. The a decision to come back and serve his “More logistical and financial assistance the country,” said Major General Elmi. The fall of the central government in command structure is fragile and the nation. Coming in as a staff officer at the is needed from the international Challenges aside, he insisted: “We are a 1991 brought about the collapse of the foot-soldiers in need of training. Ministry of Defence, he rose the ranks to community”. small force that has just been reborn, but state institutions, and the military was not The army is however slowly advisor to the former Chief of Defense But he adds, other pressing our morale is steadfastly growing, and spared. General Dahir says restructuring recovering and rebuilding itself. With Forces before taking over the top position challenges need addressing; not least if the challenges we are facing are to be support from the African Union troops, himself. Despite the challenges, the army the lack of a military medical system addressed, then we can do a lot.” “It is very rare to see a living soldier it has already played an important role general is already winning admirers to treat and cater for its troops, lack The General urged the people of in liberating most of southern and among his soldiers. His background and of adequate equipment including Somalia, particularly the troops, to decorated with a gold medal because many Central Somalia from al Shabaab and previous achievements are an inspiration. uniforms, force enablers such as tanks remain focused at this crucial moment in of my comrades who attained this uppermost its current commander is optimistic. General Elmi is the only living Somali and planes and most importantly, order to defeat the remaining Al-Shabaab Speaking at Villa Somalia, the former military officer with a gold medal for the lack of proper military camps to militants. He added Somalia is currently rank of bravery have died in the line of duty” artillery specialist said his tenure has bravery and service to his nation. “It is accommodate the troops. Many of training its special forces selected from come at an exciting time, when the very rare to see a living soldier decorated Somalia’s vast military installations were across the country, and is hopeful that Somalia’s army remains the country’s country is experiencing positive strides with a gold medal because many of my either destroyed by the war or occupied the end is near for Al-Shabaab. He uppermost priority. and enjoying relative peace: “The comrades who attained this uppermost by displaced persons. urged the Somali youths brainwashed The Somali National Army (SNA) still Somali Army, supported by the forces rank of bravery have died in the line of Lack of pay has also been a key by Al-Shabaab to repent and join their struggles with its performance, suffering from the African Union Mission in duty,” explains the General. contributor to low morale: “The compatriots in rebuilding their country. from low morale, lack of basic equipment Somalia (AMISOM), has continued In March 2013, the United Nations Somali government is now ready to The Somali army may have a long way and all this in the face of bloody attacks to win against the al-Shabaab and the Security Council (UNSC) eased pay all Somalia military soldiers their to go but its top man is confident that from Al-Shabaab. Building a capable security is improving in the country”. restrictions on selling arms to Somalia, monthly wage. This has really helped with the support from AMISOM it can army after years of war in Somalia is no During the civil war, like millions of lifting an embargo put in place 20 years us to manage the force because they continue to grow and improve.

16 17 AMISOM Engages Diaspora

he Special Representative of the Coming at a time when Somalis in reconcile: ‘‘AMISOM is not all about TChairperson of the African Union the Diaspora are returning to Somalia war, it has a wide range of windows, it Commission (SRCC) Ambassador in record numbers due to improved also promotes national reconciliation, “I call on all of you to double your efforts in Mahamat Saleh Annadif met with the security in much of the country, the aim capacity building of the Somali National Somali community in Minneapolis, of the conference was to serve as a forum Army and rehabilitation of institutions.’’ the support of the Federal Government and Minnesota, USA on 5-6 October 2013. for idea-generation and to promote the The Ambassador challenged the Somali This is the second in an ongoing series of participation of the Somali Diaspora in Diaspora to join in the rebuilding of the people as we rebuild the country” consultative engagements with the Somali their country’s peace and reconstruction Somalia. “I call on all of you to double diaspora communities in the UK, U.A.E process. The conference provided a your efforts in the support of the Federal and in the Scandinavian countries. unique opportunity for Somalis in the Government and the people as we government and the Somali National America to work together and give The two day engagement began with a Diaspora to receive a first-hand account rebuild the country. We are all here to Army to defeat Al-Shabaab, which is an constructive solutions to AMISOM town hall meeting attended by hundreds of the African Union’s intervention in listen to your solutions,’’ he said. imminent danger to the Somali people.” about the best way that Somalia’s of Somalis from different parts of North Somalia, including the mandate and Ambassador Annadif held separate urging the Diaspora Somalis to return problems could be solved. America: Imams, women representative, activities of the civilian, police and meetings with the Somali representatives to Somalia which is in need of skilled “We are very happy for the work community leaders, various Somali military components of AMISOM since in Minneapolis and visited the Somali- workers. that AMISOM has done to help Somalia organizations, youth and members of the its deployment in 2007. owned business and community center. Mr. Sadik Warfa, a Somali community stand on its own feet and we also Federal Government. During the town hall meeting, Retired Col. Ali Amer, a leader in Minnesota and the chair of the pay tribute to sacrifices of AMISOM Minnesota is the largest home of Ambassador Annadif took the representative from the Somali Local Organizing Committee was at the personnel to assist Somalia be stable Somalis in the United States and the opportunity to urge the Somali Government, said AMISOM personnel forefront of engagements happening with and peaceful. Furthermore we want community is considered an important community present to send a message have sacrificed their lives to make various key stakeholders in Minneapolis. AMISOM to help rebuild the Somali contributor to restoring peace and to Somalis to put an end to the war Somalia peaceful. “The AU mission During the town hall meeting, Sadik National Army so as to take over the rebuilding Somalia. and encourage the political leaders to in Somalia continues to help the called for the Somali Diaspora in North security of the country in the future.” 18 19 Enhancing AMISOM’s image in TCCs & PCCs

MISOM continues to raise is to demonstrate AMISOM’s work informed about the activities of their Aawareness of the mission and its through photographs and films so that respective troops. So far such events achievements in Troop Contributing the audience can get a real feel for what have been held in Kenya, Uganda, Countries (TCC) and Police AMISOM contributors are doing on the Burundi, Djibouti, Sierra Leone and Contributing Countries (PCC). ground in Somalia. Nigeria. This is carried out mainly through The goal is to build support for The activities have also helped events where the work of AMISOM the respective countries and their highlight the critical importance of is presented, either by AMISOM government’s participation in the AU communication in a peacekeeping representatives or by former AMISOM peacekeeping mission in Somalia, raise mission such as AMISOM and the officers and selected representatives public awareness about the role and central role of the media in keeping from government agencies. A key aim work of AMISOM and keep the public AMISOM in the public eye.

20 21 AMISOM Troops intensify Foot Patrols around the sectors

n November 12, a daytime attack on a security and confidence within the Ipolice station in Beledweyne, the capital local population. Indeed in some areas, of Hiiraan Region led to the death of 19 in order to show a strong and unified people. The attack was claimed by Al posture and maintain security, AMISOM Qaeda-affiliated terror group Al Shabaab. troops have upped the number of patrols Though severely weakened, Al Shabaab they carry out across the sector. is taking advantage of the relative freedom In Beledweyne, the Djibouti they have in the vast Somali countryside Contingent in collaboration with the to regroup, plan and execute attacks Somali National Army (SNA) carries against civilians in neighbouring cities. out regular joint foot patrols. As the The recent bombings in Beledweyne and Djiboutian Deputy Force Commander, Mogadishu, all of which claimed dozens of Lt. Col. Ibrahim Ali says to his soldiers lives, are testament to this. before a patrol: “The foot patrol is In the last few years, AMISOM has very different from vehicular patrol. helped the Somali National Security This provides us with better situation also continues to conduct daily foot patrols Forces to push out the Al Qaeda- awareness and observation capability. through the town, supplementing the “We have a responsibility to make this town a safe haven for civilians” affiliated Al Shabaab militants from Al-Shabaab has changed tactic and they joint night patrols they carry out with most of Somalia’s major urban areas. have resorted to planting IEDs. We have the Somali National Army. Although the Chief of Operations for Sector 3, In Sector 2 headquartered in Kismayo, Army contributes to these patrols and More recently though, the AU forces a responsibility to make this town a safe incidence of IEDs exploding while soldiers Colonel Mudomo Alexis says that the Al Members of the Kenyan Defence Force recently pushed out six kilometres further have neared the limit of their operational haven for civilians.” are on foot patrol has so far been minimal, Shabaab has changed its combat tactic serving under the African Union north, to the village of Gobweyn denying capability and have not been able to Proceeding in single file, the soldiers they are a constant security concern for from the face to face gun duels in favour Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), have its use by Al-Shabaab as a staging point continue to push for further expansion march through the town, positioning both AMISOM troops and local civilians. of explosives and has urged the local recently ended their tour of duty and for the attacks it launches on Kismayo and without endangering the gains they have themselves in strategic areas. The key These patrols are also designed to flush out population to report anything unusual been replaced by a new battalion who the neighbouring area. already made. It has been harder still areas of the foot patrol include the road suspected al Shabaab remnants that pose a to security personnel. have taken over their daily patrols in and It is hoped the increase in patrols will for the Somali National Army to make that directly leads to the Lama Galaay threat to the local herdsmen and travellers “Al-Shabaab has adopted a different around the key port city. The foot patrols continue to secure these key towns and any significant gains, given its lack of Military Camp, major junctions, the along the busy Baidoa-Mogadishu road. kind of combat. Instead of waging a have helped restore relative calm to the their surrounding areas, while the surge resources and personnel. market and the Liiq Liiqato Bridge on Armed with their automatic rifles, the classic type of fighting, the militant country’s second largest city. in troops now authorised by the United AMISOM continued to hold the the Shabelle River that divides the town troops walk along the dusty streets of Baidoa group has adopted the asymmetric A contingent of the Sierra Leone Nations will enable AMISOM to extend ground gained, conducted regular in two. occasionally speaking to locals who come combat strategy of planting Improvised military stationed in Kismayo and its reach beyond the current areas of clearance patrols and maintained In Baidoa, the Burundian contingent out to greet and wave to them. AMISOM’s Explosive Devices (IEDs)” working alongside the Somali National operations of its troops. 22 23 Skype, when the network is clear enough to allow efficient video calls. But you cannot hug your crying child or lonely wife on Skype. My only consolation is that I am not the only one who suffers this difficulty. Each one deployed in Somalia as part of AMISOM experiences this to one degree or the other. It is not an easy mission. Yet it is worthwhile. The Somali people themselves, while ravaged by war and struggling in so many ways as a society, are a source of inspiration. I will never forget my friend Abdul Aziz, who walked up to me one day and offered to dust off my boss’ car for 5 dollars. “Atayamo…” he began. I interrupted him: “how did you know my name?!” I exclaimed. He smiled. “You come here yesterday – in uniform. Your name on uniform… Give me 5 dollar - I will clean your car” Abdul Aziz is by my estimation 15 years old. He has lived his whole life in Somalia. have never met that hard man, whose the frontline while, for the most part, I haunting thought that many people outside That means all he knows is war. He has flaming eyes project blazing hatred and anger perform what is essentially routine office Somalia consider me much more than I I limited schooling, but from AMISOM from beneath his black cimamad. I’ve never duty in the safety of the Mogadishu am, and to somehow justify my inclusion soldiers and policemen he has learned heard him shout ‘praise’ to Allah in the middle AMISOM base camp. In a rather sad way, here, I have thrown all my effort into every English and Swahili and can read the of a heinous terror attack, or seen the gory this reflects the disparity between the true opportunity made available to me to serve. names off military uniforms. His most aftermath. Never physically. Only in pictures. experience in Somalia and the world’s Consequently I have witnessed the physical impressive trait reflects the immense I have lived and worked in Somalia for over perception. On the other hand, it reminds development of the Formed Police Unit potential of the Somali society – business 17 months now, and never met the vicious me that, while they are not as pervasive as (FPU) base at Arbiska, visiting several times acumen. Running his little car-dusting insurgent. Yet his shadow is never too far the world says, the negatives of this war to deliver presentations on the progress of business while he helps his elder sister away. are real. And that also informs my sense military operations to the FPU personnel run her shop, Abdul Aziz represents A pilot in the Ghana Air Force, I was of responsibility towards that AMISOM based there as they arrived in waves; I have both the debilitating impact war has had one day summoned to the Headquarters soldier who truly experiences the frontline visited troops at the front line positions in on Somalia and the immense potential in Accra, informed that the African - the responsibility to ensure that every places such as Uruba, Afgoye, Leego Buur this nation has for revival. I am truly Union had offered Ghana an air aspect of my role is played in a manner Hakaba among other areas. I have seen privileged to be part of this. planning position in AMISOM and that optimises the support available to him their expressions – that mix of tiredness I have never seen a real suicide requested to apply for the position. or her. and deep determination, and watched them bomber, engaged the enemy sniper or Three of us applied. I was chosen. Somalia is not as badly off as people interact touchingly with dirty, yet ever so been part of a group that fended off those Having grown up in Kenya, think – there’s lots of beauty, grace and beautiful Somali children. I have felt that famous Al Shabaab probing attacks. the call to serve in Somalia was good here. Nevertheless that vicious good feeling invoked when those children Someone else stands at the hesco bastion, a wonderful opportunity to insurgent’s shadow, and that of the deep run alongside our armoured convoys in in the look-out tower and at the gate to return to East Africa after 14 seated inter-clan rivalries that spring to life Mogadishu streets waving enthusiastically, keep me isolated from the real war. But I years and contribute to a brave wherever his Arabic-inscribed black flag is smiling with sincere gratitude. am part of it. I have gone beyond those effort to enhance security in a brought down, still linger. Consequently, In a multi-national mission like this one, gates and, even here within them, have region I had missed. I saw the as my younger brother so aptly puts it; “… clashes of culture, doctrine and language seen our wounded soldiers stretchered, beginning of this African- you never know where or when next it will limitations often make communication wheeled or supported limping out of led intervention on 6 March go boom!” There is still work to be done, cumbersome. Being the only Ghanaian aircraft and into ambulances – headed 2007 – exactly 50 years after and much patience to be had - at all levels military officer here, it has also been to facilities where better treatment than the first of the colonised from the politician’s to the soldier’s. Much challenging for me to learn to work with they could ever receive at the front lines African nations (Ghana) became as I am not at the front line, I am a soldier: people of differing backgrounds and world- is available – and felt the satisfaction that politically independent – as a sign that The battle must continue. views. While my Kenyan upbringing and comes with knowing I helped coordinate this mission was a key part of Africa’s overall I entered the mission as a staff officer to limited Swahili (and very limited French) those MEDEVACs. I have even driven rebirth. participate in air planning. This involves are helpful, I still find it extremely difficult an ambulance, ferrying patients from too I was to be the first Air Planner at the assigning air support tasks to the mission to balance my associations in such a I airfield to hospital in the midst of a mass AMISOM force headquarters and the sole assets available and scheduling them, then manner as not to be seen to be ‘on the other am a casualty incident. I do not stare that Ghanaian military officer serving with the AU tracking and managing their performance side’ whenever international or inter-service irate insurgent terrorist in the face, but I Mission in Somalia. It was such a privilege! 17 of the tasks. rivalries are awakened. am here for the man who does, and for months on, my duty tour extended by a year, While my official function is in Air All this notwithstanding, perhaps the Somalia. I am legitimately a part of this: it and that inspires deep sense of responsibility Plans, I have had the honour of being most difficult are the personal challenges I, too, am a soldier. in me. involved in a range of mission activities that arise from being so far away from I have tried to play that role well, all that transcends the scope of air operations. family for so long. In my 17 month I have Major Kwambena Atiemo an Air Force Pilot the while haunted by the fact that friends Perhaps as a result of my quest to acquit visited Ghana 4 times. However, there are and the only Ghanaian Officer serving with the Soldier and loved ones consider me a soldier at myself of guilt associated with the phone calls, emails and, best of all there is African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) 24 25 Digitisation of Radio: Colonel Abshir Hasshi Ali, the then Police Information of the Federal Government task.” He explained that while steady progress Officer who took over as head of Radio of Somalia is digitizing the vast archive is being made, the Ministry would welcome Mogadishu’s archives in 1991 decided to of tapes to preserve them, and make the the opportunity to expand the number of protect the archives with his life and save recordings available to a modern audience, units so that the work can be completed Somalia’s history. “There were attempts a generation that do not remember how sooner. Mogadishu’s vibrant Somalia was prior to the war. Although the digitization is underway to take the keys from me and once a man came with a grenade and removed the Contributing to the digitization there is a lot of work to be done. Nonetheless, year old pin,” said Ali, the long standing archive process, the French Government has Colonel Ali and his team are up to the task manager “but I held on to the man and said donated sufficient funds to re-furbish adding that, “our efforts will leave its mark in we will die together if you try to destroy the rooms where the digitization will the history of the country.” the archives. So he left without blowing the take place and provide some training. A “I know that all Somali youth no matter audio place up,” he recalled newly prepared building was taken over where they are love the arts, they love to The radio archive was established in in the Radio Mogadishu courtyard with listen to music. Most of them like this 60 1951 and is estimated to have 35,000 reels air-conditioning, furniture and general modern type of music, which is electronic in its collection, much of which survived refurbishment when the process was while other people like to listen to the old archive the bombardments of Mogadishu in 1993. transferred to this new location. music. We have both,” says Colonel Ali. “So Almost all of the foreign language section At a media presentation to mark the I would like to urge them not to let go of of the archive was destroyed during this move, the Minister of Information, Post, the music and the culture and the identity fter more than 60 years of analogue from various clan militias who took provided to the library of the radio period but the Somali section was not Telecommunications and Transport of the Somalis and also to keep coming up storage of Somalia’s history in an control of the city after the ousting of station and it is supporting two shifts A affected. (MIPTT) Abdullahi Elmoge Hersi said, with new works”. Adding that “The thought inadequate environment, the country’s then Somali president Siad Barre in 1991. of operators, facilitating more than one The archive and radio station was also “We have always discussed the idea to protect the archives come out of the hope only state radio, Radio Mogadishu is Until recently the archive was only hundred hours of digitization work a target for the Al Qaeda linked group al of expediting the digitization and the that someday Somalis will be united and be digitizing its archive. As Abdirahim Isse recorded on out-dated and unstable each day. Shabaab when they controlled Mogadishu. government is very keen to complete this able to appreciate this.” Addow, Director of the Radio describes analogue audio tapes which were stored Each reel can take up to two hours The group banned the listening of music it, “One can say that all the knowledge of in an uncontrolled environment putting or more to digitize, key-word and file, and often-fired mortars into the station to former scholars, poets and musicians are the unique historical record at risk. The recordings have been at risk for silence it. archived here”. However, through the digitization more than just the degradation of “There were attempts to take the keys from The Initiative of digitization is part The radio’s dark room archive of the archive, the material will be time. As the country plunged into of the media development operation me and once a man came with a grenade and contains thousands of reels with folk re-recorded as digital files that can be civil war, there were various attempts of the AU/UN Information Support songs, political speeches, drama, poetry safely stored with fail-safe copies as back to destroy the archives and loot its Team, French Government and other removed the pin...” and religious programs that were saved up. Eight digitization units have been contents. It was during this time that International partners. The Ministry of 26 27 in Mogadishu. I was glad that we had Somalia has the longest coastline in This is not a story to many officers and arrived safely but I was still anxious Africa and is endowed with massive soldiers who wear combat green uniform. about what really awaited us. resources, rivers and a rich culture. Most of them have undergone the same The following morning, I stood at a The people of Somalia, especially the on their tours of duty. I thank God though veranda on the second floor of a storied women, are very industrious mostly because our military has mechanisms to Peace building. From this spot I could see all dealing with micro-enterprises. When ensure our families are safe when we are is the the planes landing and taking off from I came to Somalia for the first time I away A close comrade drove her to the the airport as well as the ships waiting to never thought there were areas where hospital and was also there to pick her up dock at the seaport in the coastal city. people were able to do their work. when she was discharged. With time, I began to get used to However, when I later visited Afgoye My family has been very supportive a different picture of Somalia. It was town, I was surprised to see large and has always urged me on. They not going to be all war after all, even scale plantations of banana, citrus and understand the nature of our job that says Ultimate though the walls of the old buildings mangoes that made me forget in an duty calls first but I miss them a lot. are inscribed with bullets; a constant instance that I was in Somalia. I would love to visit Somalia again reminder of the hardship that befell Coming to Somalia and making my soon, not as a peacekeeper but for a to the Somalia since the ouster of former personal contributions to AMISOM is vacation with my family. Somalia is Gift president Siad Barre in 1991. a great achievement. Having been here a great country and the resolve and Being an analyst in any organization is for more than eight months, I have resilience of its people is unmatched. This very demanding. It is a job that requires witnessed great cooperation amongst country has seen the worst of time but I total commitment and sacrifice since you the AMISOM troops irrespective of am sure by God’s grace, it is bound to rise People play a vital role in the eventual decision their country of origin, giving all they again. Somalia will be one of the greatest making process. I wake up quite early, can in a bid to achieve the overall countries in East Africa. Peace is the of Somalia often by 5: 00 AM and mostly leave my objective of making peace happen in ultimate gift to the Somali people. place of work around 07:30 PM. Somalia. I put a lot of zeal to my work Being in Somalia has taught me a lot. All information obtained from every day knowing that we are headed I will be going back home with a lot of various sources must always be processed into polished intelligence to support the operations. This involves collection of the said information, collation or processing, analysis and dissemination as “With time, I began to get used to a different well as generating requirements for any picture of Somalia. It was not going to be all gaps arising from the information. It is a complex process that requires teamwork war after all, even though the walls of the old and that is what we do around the clock. While analyzing, we integrate, buildings are inscribed with bullets...” evaluate and analyze available data as well as prepare intelligence products Cpl. John Kirui, including PowerPoint briefs. Not all information is reliable, so we weigh to the right way. I face my day to day lessons and a different man. I believe I AMISOM/ KDF ensure reliability, relevance and validity obligations with joy and enthusiasm will be able to comprehend the essence of of all information availed. Finished because I believe in this noble cause. peace. analysis connects the dots by putting Being in Somalia has never been Sometimes when I go back home, my joined the Kenya Defense Forces in the Eritrea, Sierra Leone and Burundi. Al Shabaab with their covered faces, information or raw data to context to without challenges since it entails daughters never let me out of their sight. Iyear 2001. After the undergoing the When I was selected to be part of chanting with their guns up in the air reach at conclusions and highlight its working far away from my family, They chat with me inquisitively about normal training, I became an infantry AMISOM in April 2013, I felt it was a menacingly. In fact, no good thoughts implications. This becomes vital in but my very beautiful wife and four Somalia. Even when praying, my youngest soldier at the Kenya Defense Forces great honor to serve as a peacekeeper. about Somalia can come to your mind joining the dots and understanding the children are my everyday motivation. I daughter forgets I am with them and (KDF). In my early life within the Basically, as a data analyst, what I if you are visiting for the first time. My enemy better and therefore enabling remember my only son was born in my ends up adding, “I pray that you bless and military, I was accustomed to several do for AMISOM goes a long way in case was no different, having understood the force to disrupt or pre-empt enemy absence, I remember my wife telling me protect my father and other soldiers in trainings to ensure I am combat ready. the realization of the overall goal for the Somali crisis a few years back; I had activities. that we are having a son after her visit Somalia” in her prayers. It is part of the life of every soldier to be AMISOM, which is the stabilization of mixed thoughts when I learnt that I was I rarely get free time but when free, to the doctor, it did put a warm glow It would be great to be with them but ready for any eventuality in the quest to Somalia and bringing peace to and for to visit Mogadishu, not for a week or a I like reading books on capacity and on my cheeks every time my thoughts looking at them and thinking about them safeguard the country against external the people of Somalia. month but a total 12 months. personal development. I also use my wondered home. I always hoped I also makes me remember many kids in aggression. When you set sail to Somalia from As our flight touched the hard tarmac time to exercise occasionally or visit would be there when he was born but Somalia who have lost their parents and While still based in Kenya, I had heard any other country in the world, many on the Aden Abdulle International the communication team for AMISOM when the time came, I was here in relatives to Al Shabaab. It makes me see stories of war from fellow comrades who thoughts creep into your mind. It does Airport, reality dawned on me that my because in another life, I would be a Somalia. I was given the great news the need to give my best for the ultimate had been deployed in United Nations not matter the mode of transport, life in Mogadishu had just begun. It was journalist. I love anything that revolves over the phone and I spent more than return of peace to our brothers and sisters Missions in countries like Yugoslavia, you will always imagine the sight of my first day in Somalia and the first day around information. a month imagining how he looked like. of Somalia.

Corporal John Kirui is a Data Analyst serving at AMISOM Force Headquarters in Mogadishu.

28 29 he scenes in the stadium would look United and Arsenal FC. But years of FCs New Jersey colours. The uniting force Tfamiliar anywhere else in the world. incessant conflict and more recently, a of the beautiful game can be felt across the Whistles and cheers ring the air as players short-lived reign of the terror group Al capital city. run from the dugout and on to the pitch. Shabaab meant that watching or playing “During the past years, football has An ice-cream vendor patiently makes football was effectively a death dance. become a key tool in our country since it his way through the crowd haggling with Earlier this year, the Somali Football has diverted young Somali people from customers as coaches pace the sidelines Federation (SFF) finally completed war involvement, and it has contributed impatiently. It’s the first day of the renovation of the city’s oldest stadium, to peace,” stated local football trainer, Ali NationLink Premier League and for the first Konis, which was supported by the world’s Ahmed. Football time in more than two decades in Somalia, football governing body, FIFA to lay an The challenges for a football loving football is a regular fixture. artificial turf in the stadium. nation continue to persist with a spate of This year Somalia’s national team, The Following the opening of the stadium, bombings in the capital city during the Comes Ocean Stars, participated in the CECAFA FIFA organized a 5-day training program November 2013 launch of the first division Senior Challenge Cup. Despite being attended by 30 coaches and more than 300 games at the newly refurbished Konis Home knocked out in the early stages, the team children in a highlight event making FIFA’s Stadium. However, players and supporters was exhilarated about finally appearing on return to Somalia for the first time since were undeterred and the game was met the roster of regional competitions. 1986. with applause, cheers and the sounds of to Earlier this month, Somalia’s President FIFA’s representative Coach Ulrich laughter. Somalia Hassan Sheikh Mohamud reiterated Mathiot was upbeat about football’s future The future for football in Somalia brings his government’s support for football in the country. “Now we hope that the new hopes and dreams for those in charge. development initiatives. “We recognize Somali Football Federation can have a Talks of a plan to reach the African Cup football’s importance in peace and long time vision or long time program, of Nations in Morocco 2015 and World integration,” said President Hassan adding where they can bring this sort of activity all Cup Finals in Russia 2018 echo the halls that it was a way to unite the youth in around the country,” said Mathiot. of the Somali Football Federation. These Somalia. With the national league underway and may appear to be the words of a dreamer Somalis’ love for football cannot be the nation’s attention fixated on the league but, with a renewed vision for stability and overstated enough. Thousands of Somalis standings, Somalis young and old can be security in Somalia, Football steers the count themselves as loyal fans of English seen chatting away in tea shops and bus country away from internal conflict to an Premier League fans such as Manchester stops about Elman FC’s new striker or Port outward display of national pride and unity.

“During the past years, football has become a key tool in our country since it has diverted young Somali people from war involvement, and it has contributed to peace”

30 31 A YEAR 2013 IN REVIEW

JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE January 4th Amnesty International Feb 18-22nd AMISOM and SNA March 6th The United Nations April 2nd Somali government forces May 2nd The UN Security Council June 10th Prime Minister Abdi raises concern on capture Aw Dheegle, Security Council adopted with the support of African adopts resolution Farah Shirdon welcomes increasing rape cases in Janaale and Barriire resolution 2093 extending Union Troops successfully 2102, creating the UN foreign investment law as internally displaced camps in Lower Shabelle and the authorization of completed the last leg of Assistance Mission in a business-friendly step the Jowhar airfield in AMISOM until 28th their 241 kms advance Somalia (UNSOM). in the right direction and January 5th Somali National Forces Middle Shabelle from Al- February 2014. from Mogadishu to Baidoa. says Somalia is ready to do fend off an Al Shabaab Shabaab. This route opens up this May 23rd The African Union business with the world. ambush in Luuq, killing 23 March 6th The United Nations key supply route and marks 50 years since its insurgents. Feb 22nd More than 20 countries Security Council allows for the provision of founding. Celebrations June 11th Somalia Bids Farewell to deploy envoys to the authorizes a partial lifting humanitarian aid. conducted in Mogadishu United Nation Political January 9th Somali president Hassan Somalia in five months of the arms embargo for and Addis Ababa. Office for Somalia and Sheikh Mohamud invites following the end of a period of 12 months for April 3rd Sierra Leone Troops deploy Ambassador Augustine Somali refugees to return internal strife in the weapons solely intended to Somalia. Sierra Leoneans May 27th Somali National Army Mahiga. home. country. for the Somali National constitute AMISOM’s fifth supported by AMISOM Security Forces. contingent, after Burundian, capture Mubarak, Ugunji, June 19th Al Shabaab fighters attack January 11th Al Shabaab executes Feb 25th The Somali National Djiboutian, Kenyan and Nuun and Furuqley in the UN compound based French intelligence Agent Army supported by March Ethiopian forces pull Ugandan contingents. Qoryooley and Awdinley outside the AMISOM Denis Allex who was held AMISOM capture the 15th - 22nd out of Hudur in Bakool districts of the Lower compound in Mogadishu. since 2009 following a towns of Dardan and Region and Militatnt April 9th President Barack Obama Shabelle region from Al botched rescue attempt Jiirada-Kuullow in the group Al Shabaab clears way for US to provide Shabaab. by French Special Forces Bay region. regained of the town. military assistance to in Bulomarer, a rebel- following partial lifting of controlled town south Feb 28th Somalia makes first arms embargo on Somalia. of the Somalian capital, livestock exports in 22 Mogadishu. years as it continues its April 12th Somali National Army recovery from decades of celebrates 53rd anniversary January 18th Shabelle producer internal conflict. of its formation. Abdihared Osman Aden shot and killed April 19th Somali Cabinet approves while walking to work. draft of anti-terrorism law. He was the first Somali journalist killed in 2013. April 30th Nicholas Kay is appointed as the United Nations Secretary General’s Special Representative for Somalia, replacing Augustine Mahiga. 32 33 A YEAR 2013 IN REVIEW

JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER 1st July Hassan Dahir Aweys, August 28th Somali president 17th Sept International October 1st Kenyan MPs Nov 6th British court prevents Barclays bank Dec 2nd Prime Minister Abdi Farah one of Al Shabaab’s key Hassan Sheikh donors promise 2.4 demand closure from cutting off service to the Somali Shirdon is voted out of office leaders surrenders to the Mohamud creates billion dollars in of Somali refugee money transfer company Dahabshiil. just over a year after assuming Somali government. National Security reconstruction aid in a camps. post. Council. The council three-year ‘’New Deal’’ Nov 11th Somali refugees’ voluntary repatriation 1st July Somalia celebrates becomes the highest to strengthen the October 5th U.S. Navy SEALs process from Kenya begins. Dec 5th AMISOM and Stakeholders 53rd independence body tasked with economy and security. abandon an conclude a four-day Gender Nov 12th Hundreds feared dead as heavy anniversary. policy and strategy of overnight raid on Workshop on Strengthening tropical cyclone storm hits Puntland. the national security. the Somali seaside Somalia’s judicial Capacity July 16th Ethiopian forces vacate home in Baraawe to address Gender Based Nov 12th UN Security Council approves 4,000 Baidoa in the southern August 28th Agreement between of an Al-Shabaab Violence troops boost to AMISOM. region of Bay. Somali government leader, Dec 12th Abdiweli Sheikh Ahmed is and Ras Kamboni Nov 19th Al Shaabab Target Police Station in October 26th Members from the appointed new Somalia Prime delegation creates Beledweyne killing 16 people Interim Jubba African Union’s Minister. Administration. The Peace and Security Nov 25th Somali Government unveils 2014 Dec 16th Burundi’s Lt. Gen Silas agreement was signed Council visit budget proposal. Ntigurirwa takes office as the in Addis Ababa Mogadishu to meet with President Nov 27th Maj Gen Geoffrey Baraba Muheesi AMISOM Force Commander, Hassan Sheikh from Uganda is appointed Deputy taking over from Lt. Gen Mohamud. Force Commander in-charge Andrew Gutti of Uganda. of operations and Planning for Handover ceremony takes AMISOM and Maj. General Francis place in Mogadishu. K. Nthenge appointed as Deputy Force Dec 16th Intergovernmental Authority Commander Support. on Development (IGAD) Nov 28th Cabinet approves the appointment of appoints Ambassador Bashir Isse Ali as interim Central Bank Mohamed Abdi Affey as new Governor. envoy to Somalia.

November 30th AMISOM and the UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Somalia closed the first Somalia specific United Nations Humanitarian Civil-Military Coordination (UN- CMCoord) Course 34 35 Find us online: www.amisom-au.org

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