The Ethiopian Army has been awarded the prestigious Medal of Honor by the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) in recognition of its exceptional contributions to peacekeeping operations in Somalia. This award acknowledges the Army’s vital role in maintaining peace and stability in the region, reinforcing Ethiopia’s commitment to international security.
Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations, praised the Ethiopian peacekeepers in September for their invaluable service and the strong partnership between Ethiopia, the UN, and the Department of Peacekeeping Operations.
The formal recognition ceremony took place on Tuesday, marking the end of Ethiopia’s active peacekeeping mission in Somalia. Brigadier General Kendu Gezu, Commander of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), lauded the Ethiopian forces for their professionalism and dedication in executing their mission, highlighting the sacrifices made by the troops to secure Somalia’s peace.
Brigadier General Abiy Ahmed, who led the Ethiopian Army’s operations within ATMIS, expressed gratitude towards the administration and the people of South West Somalia for their unwavering support during the mission. He confirmed that despite numerous operational challenges, the Ethiopian forces had successfully met their objectives.
The ceremony was attended by a range of officials, including ATMIS officers, local authorities, and political leaders, underscoring the importance of this achievement.
ATMIS, which took over from the African Union Mission to Somalia in April 2022, is working to gradually transfer security responsibilities to Somali national forces by the end of 2024. The mission includes a phased troop withdrawal and efforts to enhance the capabilities of Somali forces while ensuring civilian protection and continued humanitarian aid in areas reclaimed from the militant group al-Shabaab.
Note: Al-Shabaab is a terrorist organization banned in multiple countries, including Russia.
