134 Somali National Army (SNA) soldiers graduated on 7 November from a UK-led training course in Baidoa, the capital of South West State in Somalia. The training is part of the UK’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the capacity of Somali security forces.
During the graduation ceremony, held at a UK-funded training facility in Baidoa, the SNA soldiers demonstrated the combat skills that they have acquired over the past two months which will help them to deliver lasting peace and security in Somalia. The training has equipped the soldiers with vital skills, including training in field-craft, leadership, human rights, first-aid treatment, patrolling and the delivery of defensive operations to enhance their current capabilities.
The pass-out ceremony was attended by senior government officials from South West State, senior military officers and commanders from the SNA, the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and UK officials.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony, British Ambassador to Somalia, Ben Fender said:
The Commander of British Forces in Somalia, Colonel JL Baynham, said:
In attendance was the South West President, Abdiaziz Hassan ‘Laftagareen’ who thanked the UK for the ongoing support to the SNA. He said:
The commander of the SNA in Baidoa, Brigadier General Osman was also present and thanked the UK government and Commander Baynham for his dedication in ensuring a training centre is established.
The UK is supporting efforts to build the capacity and capability of Somalia’s security forces, ahead of transition to Somali-led security.
Since January 2017, the UK has delivered training to over 900 SNA soldiers. The training has focused on medical skills, leadership development, equipment care, logistics and the rule of law.
