Why Kenya Army Commander Visited Troops In Somalia

MOGADISHU, Kenya, Aug 27 (KDF)- Commander Kenya Army Lieutenant General (Lt Gen) Walter Koipaton visited Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) troops deployed in the Federal Republic of Somalia under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).

During his two-day visit to the troops in various Forward Operating Bases (FOBs), Lt Gen Koipaton thanked the troops for their sacrifice, service to humanity and their motherland.

“The KDF command takes cognisance of your spirited efforts of protecting the territorial integrity of the Republic of Kenya, promotion of regional peace and security. These efforts have contributed to reduced enemy activities,” said Lt Gen Koipaton while addressing soldiers at Afmadhow FOB.

Lt Gen Koipaton further commended the troops for engaging the local residents in their areas of operation through the Civil Military Cooperation Activities, which are critical in peace and development.

AMISOM Sector II Commander Brigadier Jeff Nyagah – who accompanied Commander Kenya Army in his visit – said despite the complexity of the operating environment the troops remain motivated in carrying out their tasks in line with AMISOM’s mandate. He also noted that the troops are making positive strides in ensuring peace and stability in Somalia is achieved in line with AMISOM’s mandate.

While in Somalia, the commander visited FOBs in the areas of Afmadhow, Tabda, Hoosingow, Belles Qooqani, Dhobley, Gherille and Burahache.