Barawe, 22 April 2026 – The African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) Battle Group 45 Commander, Col. Justus Musenene, today met a high-level government delegation from Mogadishu in Barawe, Lower Shabelle Region, as part of preparations for the upcoming elections.
The delegation, led by State Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs Ambassador Ilyaas Sheikh Omar, commended AUSSOM troops and the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) in the Barawe sub-sector for maintaining peace and stability.
“Thank you so much for making the region peaceful. You should not get tired because you are doing a great job,” Minister Ilyaas said.
He encouraged the local community to support security agencies and use the prevailing peace to pursue socio-economic activities. Addressing Barawe residents later, Minister Ilyaas stressed the need to maintain peace and avoid actions that could trigger insecurity.
The Minister was accompanied by Lower Shabelle Governor Abdifatah Sayid Ahmed and State Minister of Endowment and Islamic Affairs Eng. Abukar Jeylani, Deputy Minister of Interior and Local Government Abdifatah Ali Mursal, Women’s Association leader Maryan Mukhatar Mohamed and Members of the House of the People, among others.
Barawe District Commissioner Umaru Abdulahi Mahammad praised the cooperation, teamwork, and dedication of the AUSSOM troops and commended the Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) initiatives supporting the community.
Col Musenene applauded the Minister and his delegation for engaging with the community on national security and development, reaffirming AUSSOM’s commitment to ensuring sustained peace and stability in the region.
“It is our mandate to ensure security for the people and their property,” said Col. Musenene.
The SNAF 06 Brigade Commander, Col. Abdurahuman Elmi, emphasised the importance of unity, cooperation, and comradeship among stakeholders to achieve peace.
