AU's military chief of staff leaves Somalia as Al-Shabaab ups attacks

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Ahead of the anticipated exit upon completion and full implementation of the Somali Transition Plan [STP], top officers working with the African Union Mission in Somalia have continued to leave, paving way for the new leadership as the country pushes for stability.

On Monday, the team held a colorful ceremony for Brig. Gen Domitten Kabisa, the outgoing chief of staff of the military, has been in the country for a while on a peacekeeping mission. The Chief of Staff is the third in command under the AMISOM military protocols.

He coordinates activities besides ensuring the program of the Force Commander and the Deputy Force commander is held in line with the military protocols. The office is key in the functioning of any military component across the world.

During the farewell in his honor, the Deputy Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission [DSRCC] for Somalia, Simon Mulongo, described Brig. Gen. Kabisa, who has completed his tour of duty, as an “effective and efficient” officer.

“At no time did you ever fail to represent very efficiently and effectively the military component, and sometimes representing the mission as a whole. So, the commendation I have about you and for you is to the effect that you are an efficient and effective general,” the DSRCC said.

In appreciation, Mulongo presented Brig. Gen. Kabisa with an African Union plaque, a certificate of excellence, and other gifts. Force Commander Lt. Gen Diomede Ndegeya also hailed the officer for the work he's been doing in Somalia.

“As a Staff Officer, you have also worked so well to the satisfaction of the mission leadership. We recommend that wherever you go, you are capable of attaining any task commensurate with your experience and appointment because we are witnesses to your professional performance,” Mulongo added.

The Force Commander, Lt. Gen. Ndegeya, described Brig. Gen. as a professional and industrious officer, whose vast experience in peace support operations had greatly benefited the mission.

“Your previous solid experience as East African Standby Force Commander inspired you to bring new ideas and to propose adapted initiatives to AMISOM Force Headquarters,” said Lt. Gen. Ndegeya, who also praised the outgoing Chief of Staff for his honesty and flexibility.

Lt. Gen. Ndegeya noted that as the Force Headquarters focal person for the Covid-19 Task Force, Brig. Gen. Kabisa played a critical role in stemming the spread of Covid-19 among AMISOM troops, by ensuring strict compliance with the protocols, and also ably served as a stand-in Force Commander.

“During the temporary absence of the Force Commander, you assumed correctly the command and control of AMISOM military personnel by making appropriate strategic decisions. Your experience and attitude in peace operations missions could serve as a benchmark and resource for young officers,” said Lt. Gen. Ndegeya.

The outgoing Chief of Staff hailed the AMISOM senior leadership for the guidance and advice rendered to him during his tour of duty, enabling him to discharge his duties.

“I am satisfied, I am very honored by your compliments, thank you very much for everything that you have done for me, and particularly, the advice. It was extremely beneficial to me,” Brig. Gen. Kabisa said.

GAROWE ONLINE