MOGADISHU, March 7 (Xinhua) -- The African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) has pledged its full commitment to liberating Somalia from al-Shabaab's insurgency.
AUSSOM Force Commander Sam Kavuma, who spoke during a field visit to assess the combat readiness of frontline troops following the successful liberation of the strategic towns of Mubarak and Durasalaam in Somalia, said the allied forces are united in their efforts to flush out al-Shabaab terrorists in the country.
"Through sweat, struggle, and sacrifice, we stand united to eliminate al-Shabaab and secure a future for our brothers and sisters in Somalia," Kavuma said in a statement on Friday evening after the field visit.
He called on the Ugandan contingent serving under AUSSOM and the Somali National Armed Forces to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, morale, and discipline in fulfilling the mission's mandate.
"AUSSOM, in partnership with the Somali government and other stakeholders, will provide essential relief support to the liberated communities," he added.
The joint operation conducted on Monday with international partners resulted in the full capture and securing of two strategic locations that had long served as strongholds and safe havens for al-Shabaab terrorists.
Owiny Akena, Battle Group 44 commander and operation commander, said Mubarak and Durasalaam remain under the full control of the joint forces. ■