New Ethiopian General takes over Command of AU forces in Somalia

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The African Union Mission in Somalia has a new Force Commander. Lt. Gen. Tigabu Yilma Wondimhunegn from Ethiopia, took up office today, from Lt. Gen. Jim Besigye Owoyesigire, who has served in that capacity since January 2018.

The handover of instruments of power between the outgoing and incoming Force Commanders was presided over by Francisco Caetano Madeira, the Special Representative of the African Union Commission Chairperson for Somalia (SRCC), who is also the Head of AMISOM.

“There is work to be done,” Ambassador Madeira told Gen. Tigabu during the handover ceremony. “The task ahead is enormous, but I am very confident that you can do it,” he added while commanding Gen. Owoyesigire for “sharing all his knowledge” to push forward AMISOM’s mandate. He described the outgoing Force Commander as an “extraordinary officer”.

Gen. Tigabu has 34-years experience in the military and has served the Ethiopia National Defence Forces (ENDF) in several capacities, including as Division, Brigade, Battalion, and Company Commander.

“This Mission is a challenging one, but we are up to the task,” the incoming Force Commander made an assurance while assuming office.

Prior to his appointment, he served as a member of the Defence Council and Head of Defence Logistics Main Department, where he was instrumental in planning, delivery, generation and integration of the Defence Capability, among others.

He holds a Masters degree in Business Administration, a degree in Leadership and Military Science and a Diploma in Law.