Abdoulaye Diop, the African Union Commission’s special envoy ambassador, is currently on a trip to Somalia to evaluate the work of the AU mission and boost peacekeeping efforts, reported Xinhuanet.
According to the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), Diop, who arrived in Mogadishu on Wednesday, will spend two days in the country evaluating the work of AMISOM with a view of boosting support.
“The AU Chairperson sent me as his special envoy,” Diop said during a meeting with the head of AMISOM Francisco Madeira on Wednesday. “I am here to express solidarity with the government and people of Somalia.”
The AU envoy met AMISOM staff from the civilian, military, and police components on the mission’s programs and activities and applauded AMISOM’s leadership for the exemplary contributions to peace and security in Somalia.
Diop said he was pleased to have got the opportunity to visit to Somalia and interact with all the components of AMISOM. He appreciated the government for the tremendous progress made in the country and pledged continued support of the pan African body.
“The AU appreciates the progress made in Somalia and as a union, we will do our best to support the efforts of the government,” the AU envoy added.
Diop also paid tribute to the African Union troops and the Somali security forces that have died in trying to bring peace and stability in Somalia.
“They paid the highest price for peace to prevail in a sensitive and strategic region of Africa,” Diop said after laying a wreath at the monument in honor of the fallen troops.
In related news, James Swan, head of the UN Mission in Somalia (UNSOM), warned the Security Council that despite encouraging developments, insecurity across Somalia remains a serious concern.
Mr. Swan pointed out that terrorism remains a threat to Somalia’s progress, citing the deadly al-Shabab attack on the offices of the mayor of Mogadishu in July, which killed and injured several Government officials.
