Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) troops serving under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) at Kismayo and Tabda in Somalia Sector II, on 17 March 2026, conducted a Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) activities in Gabanow village in the outskirts of Kismayo and in Tabda township respectively.
The CIMIC activities encompassed three components, all carried out simultaneously: Key Leadership Engagement (KLE) sessions with the local elders, provision of medical services, and distribution of food items.
During the KLE session in Kismayo, local leaders and KDF personnel engaged in open dialogue, helping to build trust and share insights on tackling insecurity and other communal challenges that affect the local community. Local elders commended AUSSOM-KDF for its sustained efforts, noting a marked improvement in security across the area. They also expressed appreciation for food donations distributed to over 45 households during the ongoing Ramadan season, highlighting the importance of the initiative amid worsening drought conditions.
KDF commanders present emphasized that CIMIC activities are critical in enhancing cooperation with communities, encouraging the sharing of information on militia activities and emerging security threats.
Meanwhile, the AUSSOM-KDF medical team provided free medical services to over 35 residents, many of whom rarely access essential healthcare. They also encouraged regular health screenings to support early detection and prevention of diseases within the community.
Similarly, at Tabda, troops distributed food items to local residents and provided free medical care to over 80 people in the township. They later engaged in a Key Leader Engagement (KLE) session with the local leadership.
The CIMIC activity demonstrates AUSSOM-KDF’s commitment to supporting civilian populations and addressing humanitarian needs alongside security operations, within its area of responsibility. It also underscored the importance of cooperation between security forces and local communities in promoting stability, ultimately contributing to the overall success of the mission’s objectives.
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