–The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) has recognised 13 police officers from Ghana, Kenya and Zambia, for contributing to ongoing efforts to stabilise Somalia.
The individual police officers (IPOs) on Tuesday, completed their one year of service under AMISOM and are due to return to their respective countries. The AMISOM Police Commissioner, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP), Augustine Magnus Kailie, awarded the officers with medals and certificates at a ceremony in Mogadishu.
Kailie commended the officers for supporting efforts to rebuild a capable Somali Police Force that will ensure law and order when AMISOM eventually exits from Somalia.
Presently, AMISOM is implementing the Somalia Transition Plan as the mission gradually hands over security responsibilities to Somalia security forces ahead of the 2021 deadline.
In line with the transition plan, AMISOM Police officers are training and mentoring their Somali Police (SPF) counterparts, and also supporting ongoing stabilisation efforts to build and develop a capable force.
“You came, served, and assisted AMISOM to fulfil its mandate and for that, we are all grateful for your contributions,” AIG Kailie told the officers.
Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, a Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Francis Ndiema from Kenya, noted that the year of service under AMISOM was challenging but fulfilling.
“We thank our respective police forces for allowing us to serve,” SSP Ndiema noted.
Inspector Gloria Apreko, from Ghana, who mentored and trained Somali police officers in Southwest State, said, “To be recognised for serving in AMISOM is professionally rewarding.”
Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Silvester Hibajene from Zambia, who was a team leader in Baidoa, was grateful for the opportunity to serve under AMISOM.
“Receiving a medal to honour my service to Somalia, is a moment of history in my life, my family, and my country, Zambia,” ASP Hibajene said.
ENDS
