Brigadier Seif Salim Rashid has taken over as the new contingent commander of Kenyan troops serving with the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). He succeeds Brigadier William Kamoiro, who completed his tour of duty.
Brigadier Kamoiro, in his farewell address, commended the troops for their dedicated efforts in countering the Somalia-based Al-Qaeda linked terrorist group, Al-Shabaab, and other illegal armed entities within the Area of Responsibility.
“During my tenure as the commander of Sector Two, we have operated within the ATMIS mandate in line with the Somali Transition Plan (STP),” said Brigadier Kamoiro.
He highlighted the successful pacification of the Jubaland area and the protection of the civilian population as major achievements during his leadership.
“We have pacified the Jubaland area under our control and protected the civilian populations. This is through the conduct of operations to disrupt and degrade Al-Shabaab capabilities with our partners in the theatre,” he added.
Brigadier Kamoiro also praised ATMIS KDF troops for their support of the Somali-led transition process, including capacity building and the integration of Somali Security Forces (SSF).
“We have supported the capacity building and integration of SSF by conducting training, mentorship through planning and joint operations, as well as providing operational support and strategic advice to SSF,” he observed.
Brigadier Seif Salim Rashid, the incoming commander, reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the legacy of his predecessor.
“We reaffirm our commitment to the mission objectives outlined by the African Union and the international community, and primarily the people of Somalia, whom we are entrusted to protect,” stated Brigadier Seif.
He urged troops to remain vigilant in light of evolving security challenges and echoed the call by the Kenya Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Francis Ogola, for unity and determination in restoring regional peace and stability.
