The African Union Mission (AMISOM) in Somalia on Tuesday in Baidoa held a medal parade for outgoing Ethiopian National Defence Force (ENDF) troops who have completed their tour of duty.
The officers were honored with merit awards from the AU mission leadership, Federal Government of Somalia, the Organization of South West State, women and community elders for their contribution to peace and security during their deployment.
South West State President, Abdiasis Mohammed Laftagareen, said the AMISOM forces in Baidoa had succeeded in protecting the lives and properties of the people of South West, citing the neutralization of a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device early this year when terrorists attempted to attack Bardere town.
The impact of AMISOM’s Ethiopian forces are visible. These soldiers have done a commendable job for us in South West State, especially in the areas of peace-building, humanitarian assistance and community integration”, President Laftagareen said.
The Special Representative of the African Union Commission Chairperson (SRCC) for Somalia, Ambassador Francisco Madeira said by sending troops to serve under AMISOM, the Ethiopian government had shown its commitment to peace and stability in the region.
“These forces are a product of a government with a comprehensive vision of what this region should be. So I want to thank the government of Ethiopia for this important act of solidarity with, and empowerment of, the Somali people,” Ambassador Madeira said.
AMISOM Force Commander, Lt. Gen. Tigabu Yilma, said the ENDF forces had worked hard to ensure that the local population enjoyed a secure and stable environment.
“You did a lot to enable the people of this region go about their daily activities. Your sacrifice and endurance is appreciated by the people of Somalia. You stuck to the values stated in our doctrine and in the AMISOM mandate” Lt. Gen. Yilma said.
Head of United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) Ms Lisa Filipetto, commended the Ethiopian AMISOM forces for their efforts in reaching out to various community representatives to improve security in the region.
“I also wanted to commend AMISOM and the Ethiopian National Defense Forces for the outreach to civil society, NGOs and the community. This helps in improving security, the business environment and development. The UN family is grateful for the support of ENDF and AMISOM in providing security, which then enables us to do our work,” said Ms. Filipitto.
