For more than three decades, Gen. Shumet Telelew has dedicated his life to military service, guided by a deep sense of patriotism and an unwavering commitment to protecting his homeland, Ethiopia.
As the Deputy Commander in the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) Sector 4, he led troops in some of Somalia’s most strategically important areas. His service is backed by decades of leadership, battlefield experience, and deep knowledge of the country’s evolving security landscape.
Away from the frontlines, Gen. Telelew is a father of two, whose military career has been shaped by service and sacrifice. His decision to join the Ethiopian National Defence Force (ENDF) was inspired by a desire to defend his country and contribute to regional peace. That motivation continued to guide him as he oversaw Ethiopian forces serving under AUSSOM.
Having spent many years in Somalia, Gen. Telelew was among the mission’s longest-serving commanders. His extensive experience has given him unparalleled knowledge of the terrain, local communities, and the complexities of the conflict. It was this familiarity, he believed, that helped his forces work effectively alongside Somali Security Forces (SSF) in the fight against violent extremist groups.
Over the years, troops under his command participated in major military operations that led to the liberation of key towns, including Ceelbur, Guriel, Mahas, Moqokori, Yasoman, Burey, Halgan, and Beletweyne. These gains, he said, have created opportunities for governance, development, and the gradual return of normal life in communities that had long suffered from insecurity.
For Gen. Telelew, one of the most rewarding aspects of his service has been witnessing Somalia’s progress firsthand. Reflecting on Beletweyne, he spoke with genuine optimism about the visible transformation taking place.
“I am very happy that Beletweyne town’s infrastructure is improving. People have running water, electricity, and investors are coming to invest. The Somali diaspora is also returning home. This is really good, and I am happy for Somalia,” he said.
Gen. Telelew credited the African Union mission with helping create necessary conditions for Somalia to rebuild its institutions and restore the rule of law. According to him, the sacrifices made by Ethiopian troops have been part of a broader effort to support Somalia’s recovery.
“ENDF is in Somalia for 12 years now. Troops have died for it; many were maimed for Somalia to get peace. Our biggest success is to help this country have a government that governs,” he said.
Despite the existing challenges, Gen. Telelew believes Somalia’s future is brighter than ever. He pointed to the steady growth of the Somali National Armed Forces and the country’s increasing ability to take responsibility for its own security as encouraging signs of lasting stability.
“Nowadays the conditions in Somalia are better. The future of this country is good because they have developed their own military. Somalia has built its capacity,” he said.
After more than 30 years in uniform, Gen. Shumet Telelew remains steadfast and hopeful in his belief that peace in Somalia is built through perseverance, partnership, and sacrifice despite funding shortfalls.
As Somalia continues its journey toward lasting security, Gen. Telelew hopes the foundations laid by African Union forces and Somali security institutions will ensure that future generations inherit a nation defined not by conflict, but by peace, resilience, and opportunity.