Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) soldiers deployed under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) in Dhobley Main Operating Base, on 08 January 2026, conducted a community outreach in the villages of Kulmis and Tuulo Xubi.
The troops were warmly received by Area Chief Hussein Ibrahim Ahmed, who provided a brief overview of the prevailing security and humanitarian situation in the village. He highlighted key concerns affecting the local community and acknowledged the presence of the troops as an important reassurance to residents. The engagement offered an opportunity to strengthen cooperation between the security forces and community leadership while enhancing situational awareness.
The medical team offered outpatient services to the residents of Kulmis, treating common ailments. Over 30 residents received consultations, preventive care, and health education on hygiene and disease prevention. The residents expressed their appreciation, highlighting the positive impact of the outreach on their daily lives.
In response to recent drought conditions that severely affected both residents and their livestock, the troops provided much-needed relief by distributing fresh drinking water and food supplies. This support helped ease immediate hardships while offering reassurance and practical assistance to the affected locals.
The Female Engagement Team (FET) also conducted maternal health counseling and distributed hygiene kits to the women of Kulmis. During these sessions, FET members engaged the women in discussions about daily security concerns, fostering a safe space where they could openly share their challenges and needs.
Following the activities, Maj Obwiri of KDF thanked the locals for their continued support to AUSSOM troops through enhanced community response regarding security. “While we provide these supplies today, the security and stabilization of this region remain our primary focus. Our ability to conduct operations has been made possible through your cooperation. Our goal and mandate under AUSSOM are to empower you, by being our eyes, ears, and partners in peace.”
On his part, Chief Hussein expressed gratitude to the troops and encouraged the community to continue supporting the AUSSOM Forces. “As you have brought relief today, we want to assure you of our continued support in return. There is more honor in building this nation than in destroying it. Our eyes, ears, and hearts will remain committed to the peace we all seek,” concluded Chief Hussein Ibrahim.
While en route back to Base, the troops received a distress call from Tuulo Xubi’s village Chief Hubi Mohamed Khalif regarding a burst water pipe connecting the villages. Responding swiftly, the KDF-AUSSOM soldiers repaired the damaged pipe, restoring the water supply and ensuring continued access to clean water for the communities.
The community outreach forms part of the mission’s stabilization phase, aimed at achieving the mission mandate. It extends beyond core security duties to include humanitarian and social development efforts that contribute to lasting peace and stability in Somalia.
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