The AMISOM Force Commander Lt. General Jim Beesige Owoyesigire has tasked his forces in Hirshabelle region to intensify joint operations with the Somali National Army (SNA) to wipe out the Al Shabaab militants.
Lt. Gen. Owoyesigire was speaking during a visit to Johwar, as part of the ongoing security assessment across all areas of AMISOM responsibility in Somalia.
He was accompanied by senior AMISOM staff officers met with the Sector five commander Brig. Leonidas Niyungeko, commending the effort and commitment of the AMISOM troops in Hirshabelle region.
Brig. Niyungeko said operations would be undertaken to improve the general security of the area, enhance free movement of the local population and enable an environment for trade to thrive.
The Force Commander tasked the forces to intensify the training and mentorship of their SNA counterparts through joint planning, coordination and execution of operations in line with the AMISOM transition plan.
Owoyesigire further urged the troops to strengthen relations with the local community through cooperation with the regional administration and undertaking of quick impact projects to address pertaining social infrastructural challenges.
The Force Commander, accompanied by the Sector five commander also paid a courtesy call on the president of Hirshabeelle state, H.E Mohamed Abdi Ware at the presidential palace in Jowhar town.
Discussions focused on the security situation in the region, the need to secure the Mogadishu-Johwar supply route and the necessary stabilization efforts.
The Force Commander has undertaken similar visits to Baidoa, Beletweyne and Baledogle as part of the ongoing assessment of the AMISOM forces and their operational environment.