Troops from the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), along with the Somali National Army concurred in bolstering the security cooperation in Middle Shabelle province, after senior officers from the two sides held a high-level security meeting.
The meeting took place in AUSSOM Military Command, specifically Sector 5, and was presided over by AUSSOM Sector 5 Commander, Brigadier General Michel Ndenzako, the Commander of the 12th April Division of the Somali National Army, Brigadier General Hussein Mohamed Osoble, the Commander of the 3rd Brigade, Brigadier General Saney Abdulle, together with officers of the Somali National Army.
The two sides reviewed the current security situation in the Middle Shabelle region, and they further agreed upon steps in strengthening the collaboration on security operations.
Plans that the two sides agreed on are to step up intelligence sharing, to conduct joint patrols and carry out joint assessments before establishing a Forward Operating Base in the Buurane area.
The planned base that will be established in the Buurane area is expected to strengthen the presence of the Somali National Army in the area, and will support efforts in maintaining the security and the stability in the region, a statement said.
The Commander of 12th April Division, Brigadier General, Hussein Mohamed Osoble, expressed deep appreciation to Burundian troops serving under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia for their role in supporting peace, and security in Somalia. He commended their efforts and sacrifice.
AUSSOM Sector 5 Commander, Brigadier General Michel Ndenzako confirmed that AUSSOM will continue the support it provides to security operations led by the Somali National Army in order to accelerate efforts which are aimed in stabilizing the areas that have been liberated from the armed groups
