The outgoing AUSSOM Kenya Defence Forces Sector II Commander Brig. Edward Banda on July 14 handed over command to Brig. Joel Maiyo during a ceremony at the Sector HQs in Kismayo. At the Dhobley Main Operating Base (MOB), Brig. Morris Wasomi also handed over command to Col. Paul Nalimo, ensuring continuity at one of the sector’s key operational bases.
In his farewell remarks, Brig. Banda thanked the officers and troops under his command for their professionalism, dedication and resilience throughout their tour. He also expressed gratitude to the Federal Government of Somalia, the Jubaland State leadership, the African Union, mission partners and the local community for their cooperation and support, which contributed to the sector’s achievements. He concluded by leading a minute of silence in honour of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of peace.
Brig. Maiyo pledged to build on the gains made by his predecessor and continue working closely with Somali Security Forces, the African Union and other stakeholders to strengthen security, support stabilisation efforts and advance AUSSOM’s mandate. At Dhobley MOB, Col. Nalimo also committed to sustaining operational effectiveness, enhancing troop welfare and upholding Kenya Defence Forces’s high standards of professionalism.
The handover and takeover ceremonies reaffirmed the Kenya Defence Forces’s commitment to seamless leadership transitions, ensuring continuity of operations while advancing AUSSOM’s efforts to promote lasting peace, security and stability in Somalia.
