Brigadier General Ivan Falasca has officially assumed command of EUTM-S, taking over from Brigadier General Elio Manes during a change-of-command ceremony held in Mogadishu.
The ceremony was presided over by the Director of the EU Military Planning and Conduct Capability, Lieutenant General Michiel van der Laan. Attendees included the Chief of Defense Forces of Somalia, Brigadier General Ibrahim Mohamed Mohamud, as well as ambassadors, heads of diplomatic missions, Somali civilian and military officials, and representatives from international organizations and international partners. During the event, Brigadier General Manes was awarded the CSDP Medal. Throughout his tenure, EUTM-S strengthened its efforts in advising, training, and mentoring. The mission delivered 18 courses and seminars covering security, healthcare, information technology, engineering, and maritime security, with the participation of Somali forces and AUSSOM, in collaboration with international partners. The mission also resumed activities at the Training Area following the resolution of issues regarding operational costs. Between January and September 2026, EUTM-S coordinated and supported 11 training events, involving 626 participants. These training sessions included Basic Officer Courses, C-IED and live-fire training, as well as courses on logistics, fuel management, and information technology.
Reflecting on his tenure, SG Manes emphasized the importance of trust, cooperation, and Somali ownership:
โI am proud of what we have achieved together. But I am even prouder of the relationships we have builtโrelationships based on trust, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to contributing to Somaliaโs future.โ
With SG FALASCA now assuming command, EUTM-S continues its efforts to strengthen security institutions through advice, mentoring, and training, while fostering Somali ownership and the sustainable development of national capabilities.
