DHOBLEY, Somalia — Kenya’s deputy army commander, Maj. Gen. Mohamed Hassan, wrapped up a two-day operational visit to Kenya Defence Forces troops deployed in Somalia under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia, delivering a message of discipline, vigilance and troop welfare as the mission supports Somalia’s security transition against al-Shabab.
Hassan inspected positions at the Dhobley Main Operating Base and forward locations in Afmadhow, Beles Qoqani, Tabda and Hoosingo on Dec. 9 and 10. He assessed operational progress, met soldiers and commanders, and conveyed Christmas and New Year goodwill messages from Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Charles Kahariri and Kenya Army Commander Lt. Gen. David Keter.
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Upon arrival in Dhobley, Hassan was received by Col. Maurice Wasomi and reviewed a Guard of Honour mounted by KDF troops, in keeping with military tradition. He then received a comprehensive briefing on the security situation, ongoing stabilization efforts and the welfare framework supporting Kenyan personnel in the sector.
Addressing troops across the tour, Hassan praised their professionalism, resilience and continued commitment to degrading al-Shabab and enabling Somalia’s transition under AUSSOM. He underscored that success depends on mastering fundamentals amid an evolving threat environment.
“To win this war, we must continuously bond ourselves with the basic training, tactics and field craft. These fundamentals are what keep soldiers alive and effective in the battlefield,” he said.
The deputy commander stressed that readiness is inseparable from welfare, urging soldiers to seek support early for personal, financial or psychological challenges and encouraging an environment of open communication.
“Operational effectiveness is built on strong welfare systems,” he said, according to KDF. “Look after yourself and your battle buddy. When troops are well, units perform.”
Hassan also directed commanders at all levels to maintain vigilance, uphold discipline and sustain high standards of preparedness as Kenyan forces continue their mandate alongside Somali partners and other African Union contingents.
Key stops on the visit included:
- Dhobley Main Operating Base
- Afmadhow
- Beles Qoqani
- Tabda
- Hoosingo
The visits offered a firsthand look at frontline conditions as AUSSOM supports Somali-led stabilization in former al-Shabab strongholds and secures key supply routes. KDF troops in the sector have focused on protecting population centers, backing local administrations and reinforcing Somali forces as they take on a larger share of security responsibilities.
The Kenya Army said the tour sought to boost morale while reaffirming mission continuity, troop welfare and regional security goals. Hassan’s emphasis on field craft and discipline aligns with long-standing KDF doctrine in asymmetric environments, where small-unit tactics, mobility and intelligence-driven operations are decisive.
The AUSSOM framework is designed to support Somalia’s institutions and security forces as the country navigates the next phase of its counterinsurgency and stabilization effort. Kenyan forces have operated across southern Somalia for more than a decade, working with Somali units and regional partners to pressure al-Shabab, secure communities and facilitate humanitarian access.
Hassan’s end-of-year message — blending operational guidance with seasonal goodwill — comes as units prepare for holiday rotations and the challenges of a new year. His call for high readiness, strong leadership and continuous adherence to training reflects a push to keep momentum against al-Shabab while safeguarding the welfare of deployed personnel.
By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
