Mogadishu – The African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), together with the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF), inflicted significant casualties on Al-Shabaab militants in Mubarak, Lower Shabelle region.
The operation followed an attempt by Al-Shabaab militants to retake Mubarak, which was liberated by joint AUSSOM and SNAF troops earlier this month. Joint SNAF and AUSSOM Uganda troops at the Mubarak Forward Operating Base (FOB) responded swiftly, neutralising over 40 militants and wounding several others.
Ambassador El-Hadji Ibrahima Diene, the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) and Head of AUSSOM, commended the bravery of the joint AU and Somali Security Forces (SSF).
“I commend the gallant efforts of AUSSOM and the SNAF troops in decisively responding and thwarting the threat during the attack,” Ambassador Diene stated. “This demonstrates the SNAF’s capacity to sustain the fight against Al-Shabaab and secure communities, and underscores AUSSOM’s commitment to the Somali-led peace, security and stability process,” Ambassador Diene added.
AUSSOM Force Commander, Lt. Gen. Sam Kavuma stated that the mission continues counter-terrorism operations throughout its areas of responsibility in south-central Somalia. “AUSSOM troops will continue to support the Somali Security Forces to dismantle the terrorists and their networks until they are fully cleared. Somalia deserves lasting peace and stability,” Lt. Gen. Kavuma said.
Mubarak, located in Qoryoley district, is a strategic town in the Lower Shabelle region and serves as a key access point to key population centres. AUSSOM, in partnership with SSF, remains focused on supporting efforts to counter Al-Shabaab and secure population centres.
AUSSOM and SNAF are committed to working with international partners to protect civilians, maintain security, and ensure favourable conditions for the delivery of humanitarian aid.
