KISMAYO, Somalia — Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya visited Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) troops serving under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), reaffirming Kenya’s commitment to regional peace, security, and humanitarian support.
Tuya, accompanied by Kenya Army Commander Lieutenant General David Ketter, toured KDF positions in Kismayo, where Kenyan troops continue to play a central role in stabilisation efforts against militant groups and in supporting civilian populations affected by prolonged conflict.
“This mission is key, not only in advancing regional stability and supporting peace efforts, but also in sustaining humanitarian initiatives,” Tuya said during the visit. “It embodies the values of service, responsibility, and solidarity that define the Kenya Defence Forces.”
Kenya is among the frontline contributors to AUSSOM, the successor mission to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), which supports the Somali government in degrading Al-Shabaab and strengthening state institutions.
KDF troops have been deployed in southern Somalia for over a decade, operating in difficult terrain and under persistent security threats.
Tuya praised the discipline and professionalism of Kenyan soldiers, noting that their service far from home comes with significant personal sacrifice. She also acknowledged the families of service members, saying they “bear the weight of sacrifice with resilience and grace.”
“We honor the men and women serving far from home, especially during this festive season, and wish them strength, protection, and renewed courage,” she added.
The Defence CS also expressed appreciation for regional and international partners supporting the mission, emphasising that cooperation remains critical to lasting security gains in the Horn of Africa.
“Our shared purpose and cooperation are the cornerstone of meaningful and lasting impact,” Tuya said.
Kenya’s military engagement in Somalia is anchored in both regional security frameworks and national security priorities, following the launch of Operation Linda Nchi in 2011 and subsequent integration into African Union-led missions.
Security analysts note that while militant attacks persist, sustained joint operations have limited Al-Shabaab’s territorial control and operational reach.
At the Ministry of Defence, Tuya said, the welfare, safety, and well-being of deployed troops remain a top priority, as Kenya continues to balance its external security commitments with domestic security needs.
Her visit comes amid heightened regional focus on counterterrorism and stabilisation, particularly along the Kenya–Somalia border, where authorities continue to guard against cross-border threats while supporting peacebuilding efforts in Somalia.
