By Barbara Among
Friday, August 14, 2009
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A new Force Commander for the African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia has assumed office. Maj. Gen. Nathan Mugisha took over from Maj. Gen. Francis Okello.
Mugisha takes over command at a time when the troops are facing increasing attacks from Islamic insurgents.
The team is also battling a strange disease that has claimed five peacekeepers.
The army, however, says the peace process has gained momentum and is enjoying overwhelming support from the international community.
The UN last year adopted a resolution to provide logistical support to AMISOM. In June this year, in Brussels, the international community pledged at least $213m (about sh 430b) towards AMISOM and the Somali security sector.
At the hand-over ceremony at Hallane, Mogadishu, the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the AU Commission, Nicholas Bwakira, praised AMISOMfor its achievements under very difficult circumstances.
The UPDF Commander for Land Forces Lt Gen Katumba Wamala called on African leaders to seek the support of the international community to help the Somalis overcome their problem.
Source: New Vision, August 14, 2009