US army releases civilian casualty report on Al-Shabaab war in Somalia

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The US Africa Command has released the fifth civilian casualty report on the Al-Shabaab war, which was unveiled for the first time in 2020, following complaints that the army at times targeted civilians in the raids against Al-Shabaab militants.

The US army has been involved directly in the fight against the Somalia-based militants who have been wreaking havoc against innocent civilians, members of security forces, and even senior government officials in the country.

In the latest report for the period ending March 2021, two new reports of civilian casualties were recorded out of the three that were open. This is the fifth quarterly civilian casualty assessment report since U.S. Africa Command began releasing reports in April 2020 as part of its commitment to increased transparency and accountability.

During the quarter, the command completed two assessments of reports of civilian casualties. One assessment remains open and under review. In addition, the command conducted a roundtable discussion with seven Non-Government Organizations [NGO] to discuss civilian casualty processes.

“It is important that we maintain transparency of our civilian casualty reporting processes,” said U.S. Army Gen. Stephen Townsend, commander, U.S. Africa Command. “We will continue to refine our processes to ensure our partners and the public recognize our commitment to minimizing civilian casualties whenever possible.”

The command continues to look for ways to increase transparency and consider other viewpoints on our processes. Those affected are usually compensated by the State Department, which looks into such cases.

“U.S. Africa Command appreciates the opportunity to engage in frank and honest discussions with Non-Governmental Organizations,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Christopher Karns, director, U.S. Africa Command Public Affairs. “These engagements provide U.S. Africa Command opportunities to increase our ability to mitigate civilian casualties and build an increased understanding of the purpose of our operations where we can.”

Continuing to apply pressure on the al-Shabaab network using a variety of means remains important to Somali and U.S. security interests.

"Al-Shabaab has carried out deadly suicide and terror attacks in Somalia including recent attacks targeting Danab leadership as well as recent bombing campaigns that have displaced thousands of Somali civilians,” said Townsend. “We will continue to support our partners and disrupt al-Shabaab's efforts."

Al-Shabaab still controls large swathes of rural central and southern Somalia according to an assessment done by several stakeholders including the United Nations. The US withdrew its troops early this year but continues to support operations in the Horn of Africa nation.

GAROWE ONLINE