Top US Commander Visit Mogadishu, Affirms Support on the War against Shabaab

Somalia is set to get continued support from the United States Government, as they seek to restore stability after decades of anarchy.

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Thomas D. Waldhauser, commander, U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Ambassador to Somalia Donald Yamamoto made this commitment during a visit to Mogadishu on Tuesday.

During the visit, Waldhauser and Yamamoto met with Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire and key Somali defense officials.

Their talks revolved towards destabilizing Al-Shabaab terror group, which is responsible for thousands of killings within and the region, Kenya being the worst hit.

“U.S. security assistance to Somalia is an important part of our efforts to work with the people and government of Somalia for peace and stability,” said Yamamoto.

“Peace and stability for Somalia means more stability in the entire region. It also means that the people of Somalia will be able to better focus on building a prosperous future.”

Kenya Defence Forces are among a more than 10, 000 strong AMISOM forces fighting the militants.

To complement their efforts, the US Forces have launched tens of air strikes, killing the terrorist’s right from their hideouts.

Somali National Security Forces and their AMISOM partners continue to make advancements into the territory previously beset by terrorists.

In a statement, the US Africa Command says, ” these Somali-led operations are necessary to advance Federal Government of Somalia objectives, spur economic activity and development, and release Somali citizens from the oppression and coercion of al-Shabaab.”

Somali forces recently cleared the south of the Shabelle River near the village of Bariire and established a security presence in the area.