Kenyan troops complete intensive training ahead of Somalia deployment.

Hundreds of Kenyan soldiers have completed an intensive military training programme in Isiolo ahead of their deployment to Somalia under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

The exercise, conducted at the School of Infantry, was overseen by Central Command General Officer Commanding Major General William Kamoiro and aimed at preparing troops for operations in Somalia’s complex security environment.

During the training, soldiers underwent rigorous drills focused on combat readiness, force protection, and engagement with civilian populations during military operations. The programme included simulated missions and coordination exercises designed to replicate real-life scenarios they may encounter while serving in Somalia.

Military officials said the exercises were intended to strengthen decision-making under pressure, improve responses to evolving security threats, and enhance cooperation with partner forces operating under the AUSSOM framework.

The training also emphasized teamwork, adaptability, and interoperability, key components of multinational peace support operations.

The deployment comes as Somalia continues to face security challenges posed by the Al-Shabaab insurgency, which remains active in parts of central and southern Somalia and continues to launch attacks against security forces and civilian targets.

Kenya has played a significant role in regional security efforts since deploying troops to Somalia in 2011, citing the need to combat cross-border terrorism and enhance stability in the Horn of Africa. Kenyan authorities have linked the intervention to security concerns arising from attacks in counties bordering Somalia, including Mandera, Garissa, and Lamu.

Mustaqbal