Ceeljaale, 19 April 2026 – The Governor of Lower Shabelle Region, Mr Abdifatah Sayid Ahmed, today met with the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) Battle Group XLIII Commander, Col Robert Koch, at Ceeljaale Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Marka district.
The meeting focused on effective security coordination among security actors to ensure peace and public safety during the upcoming regional elections.
Governor Sayid praised AUSSOM troops for their role in ensuring Somalia’s stability and urged sustained cooperation among security stakeholders.
Col Koch also briefed the Governor on the security situation and highlighted ongoing joint operations and Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) activities to support stabilisation efforts.
Marka District Commissioner Adani Adeko, who was in attendance, urged the deployment of additional police personnel to ensure security and peace during the upcoming elections. Mr Adeko also highlighted the community’s needs, including hospital logistics and solar lighting.
Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) 141 Battalion Commander, Maj. Ali emphasised the need for strengthened security coordination to improve operational effectiveness during the election period.
Other officials present at the meeting included Deputy Minister of Environment and Climate Change Hussein Ali Haaji, Member of Parliament Muhammed Ibrahim Mocalimuu, Deputy Governor Abuukar Abdalle Bashiir and the ruling party’s Director General, Abdullahi Ashcari.
