Kenyan peacekeepers serving under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) were honoured in Dhobley for their outstanding contribution to peace and stability in the Jubaland region. During a colourful medal parade led by AMISOM Force Commander Lt. Gen. Diomede Ndegeya, the 10th Kenyan Contingent was praised for its resilience, professionalism and unwavering commitment amid persistent security threats posed by Al-Shabaab. The ceremony, attended by senior AU and Kenyan military officials, marked a moment of recognition for troops who have spent years helping stabilise Somalia ahead of the transition to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).
In his remarks, Lt. Gen. Ndegeya credited the Kenyan Defence Forces (KDF) for significantly weakening Al-Shabaab’s operational capability while also championing humanitarian and community-driven initiatives. From mobile rapid-response units to life-saving Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) projects, he highlighted the contingent’s role in improving livelihoods, especially for women and youth. He further paid tribute to KDF soldiers who have died during Somalia operations over the past decade, noting that their sacrifices had contributed to Somalia’s gradual recovery. The Sector II Commander, Brig. Jeff Nyagah, affirmed that the troops remain mission-focused and committed to completing AMISOM’s mandate as the mission transitions to ATMIS.
The event also saw the launch of a Smart Farm within the Dhobley Forward Operating Base—an initiative designed to support troop welfare, promote environmental stewardship and demonstrate modern farming techniques for local communities. As Somalia prepares for the next phase of AU support under ATMIS, Kenyan troops continue to play a central role in shaping regional security and strengthening collaboration with Somali partners. The commendation comes at a critical time, as the AU seeks to realign its peacekeeping strategy while maintaining pressure on Al-Shabaab. For Kenya, the recognition reinforces its long-standing commitment to regional stability and highlights the continued sacrifices made by its men and women in uniform as Somalia moves toward lasting peace.