Why we should support AMISOM efforts in Somalia

By Hassan Isilow

I had never been a fan of the African Union Peace keeping mission in Somalia (AMISOM), not until recently when they overpowered Al-Shabaab and took full control of Mogadishu. 

When Uganda first contributed troops to the peace keeping mission in Somalia in 2007, I was among those who complained over the country’s involvement in a risky endeavour.

I expected AMISOM to fail, but I was surprised when they recently took control of Mogadishu. This victory has since changed my perception of AMISOM. Residents are starting to enjoy some peace. However, I am certain critics of AMISOM are already asking how long the peacekeepers will manage to retain control of Mogadishu before Al-Shabaab takes it over again. 

AMISOM should observe the following so as to preserve their victory. They should order Ethiopian troops to withdraw. 

The presence of Ethiopian forces inside Somalia brings bad memories and this could make Somali youth start up another resistance like they did previously. 

Secondly, AMISOM troops should not hit civilian targets. Indiscriminate shelling will radicalise Somalis and destabilise the gains made by AMISOM in Mogadishu.

The writer is a journalist