Addis Ababa Ethiopia: Military Operations Coordination Committee (MOCC) and the African Union Police Strategic Support Group (PSSG) convened a joint meeting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The 16th meeting was chaired by AU Commissioner for Peace Security Ambassador Smail Chergui. In attendance were Chiefs of Defence Staff (CDS) and Chiefs of Police Troop from the contributing countries (Burundi, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda, Sierra Leone).
Somalia Federal Government was also represented as well as Representatives of partner countries and institutions (European Union, Inter-Governmental Authority on Development, United Kingdom, United States of America and United Nations) also participated in the meeting.
The meeting basically revolved on how to enhance AMISOM operations in Somalia.
The recommendations of the committee of experts included the need for strict adherence to the chain of command, increased patrols, force protection as well as UNSOA to increase support package to AMISOM operational needs.
The meeting provided a platform to deliberate on progress in the development of the revised AMISOM Concept of Operations (CONOPs).
Participants noted the tremendous progress made by AMISOM in degrading the Al Shabaab capabilities.
The MOCC/PSSG recognized the brave role played by AMISOM troops and Police Contributing Countries in support of Federal Government of Somalia towards achieving a sustained peaceful process in Somalia.
The MOCC/PSSG also appreciated the support provided to AMISOM by the UN through UNSOA to enhance AMISOM efficiency.
The panelist stressed the need for implementation of the next phase of offensive operations to neutralize the Harakat al Shabaab al Mujahideen (HSM) Movement.
There is need for full participation of the Somali National Army (SNA) and the Somali Police Force (SPF) in the renewed efforts to take control of areas liberated by AMISOM.
