Kenya’s newly appointed Army Commander, Lieutenant General David Keter, has made his first official visit to KDF troops serving under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
Lt. Gen. Keter, who took over from Lt. Gen. David Tarus—now heading the National Defence University-Kenya—was received by Sector II Commander Brigadier Edward Banda and Deputy Commander Colonel Samson Kenga.
The general visited key forward operating bases in Dhobley, Afmadhow, and Kismayo, where he interacted with troops on the frontline.
The trip, a customary tradition for newly appointed military chiefs, aimed to boost troop morale, assess operational readiness, and reinforce Kenya’s strategic objectives in Somalia.
“Lt. Gen. Keter underscored the mission’s role in degrading Al-Shabaab, stabilising liberated areas, and strengthening Somali national forces for long-term security,” AUSSOM said in a statement.
Keter praised the troops for their resilience and discipline in a mission that has seen KDF personnel operating in Somalia since 2011 under Operation Linda Nchi.
The deployment transitioned into the African Union-led AMISOM and is now under AUSSOM as part of Somalia’s phased security handover.
Jubaland, where most KDF troops are stationed, remains a critical buffer against Al-Shabaab incursions into Kenyan territory.
Brig. Banda described the visit as “timely and morale-boosting,” reiterating Sector II’s commitment to the mission’s objectives.
Kenya, like other troop-contributing countries, is expected to gradually draw down forces under the Somali Transition Plan, as Mogadishu builds its own defence capabilities. However, Kenyan officials have repeatedly affirmed their continued engagement in regional stability efforts.
Lt. Gen. Keter’s visit marks a new chapter in KDF’s evolving role in Somalia—and in Kenya’s broader security posture in the Horn of Africa.
