FOSTERING PARTNERSHIPS AND SOCIAL COHESION THROUGH EDUCATION AND SPORTS

Recognizing education and sports as key drivers to promoting social integration, economic growth and long-term stability in peace support operations, Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) troops serving under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) strengthened partnerships with both the Somalia Security Forces (SSF) and the local community through a series of Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) activities in Afmadhow, Jubaland State in Somalia.

As part of efforts to strengthen cooperation among security partners, AUSSOM KDF troops hosted the SSF for a friendly football match at the Afmadhow Main Operating Base (MOB), an initiative aimed at fostering mutual trust, enhancing professional collaboration, and strengthening camaraderie between the two forces. AUSSOM KDF secured a 4–2 victory in an entertaining match that reflected the spirit of teamwork and healthy competition.

To mark the occasion and encourage continued sporting engagement, the Officer Commanding, Maj D. M Anangwe presented the visiting SSF team with two goalpost nets. The event concluded with a shared lunch, underscoring the unity and strong working relationship between AUSSOM KDF  and the SSF troops.

In a separate outreach activity, AUSSOM-KDF troops visited Dhobale Primary School, where they donated assorted stationery to support learning and improve the educational experience of pupils.

The delegation was received by the school’s headteacher, Mr. Abdullahi Sa’ad Maamule, who briefed the troops on the school’s academic programmes, available infrastructure, and the challenges affecting the delivery of quality education. He also led the delegation on a tour of the institution.

Mr. Abdullahi and local leaders expressed appreciation for the continued support provided by AUSSOM-KDF, noting that the mission’s outreach initiatives and mentorship programmes have made a positive impact on the welfare and educational opportunities of learners in the area.

The engagements form part of AUSSOM’s broader stabilization efforts, which seek to complement security operations by strengthening partnerships with security institutions while supporting community development through initiatives that promote education, social cohesion, and sustainable peace.