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Somalia

Beletweyne youths resolve to work with AMISOM and Somali security forces to enhance security

Beletweyne, 16 April 2017– Youths in Beletwayne have resolved to work closely with the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and Somali security forces to improve security in the region.

The resolution was made last Friday during a two-day conference organized by Hiran Youth, an umbrella youth organization in collaboration with HirShabelle administration.

The meeting, which attracted over 100 participants from the five districts that form Hiiraan region, discussed the role of the youth role in ensuring peace and security in Somalia and the importance of their collaboration with security agencies.

Sadik Omar Arte, a member of Hiran Youth, welcomed the meeting, describing the resolution to work closely with security forces as important for peace and stability of Somalia.

“It was about security, collaboration with the administration and the role youth can take in ensuring peace. As an outcome, we agreed to strengthen the collaboration between AMISOM, Hiraan administration and the youth so as to intensify security. The security and stability here is due to the collaboration between the youth and the security agencies,” Mr. Arte said.

HirShabelle Youth and Sports Minister Abdikani Abdullahi also applauded the role played by AMISOM not only in ensuring security but also in tackling challenges such as seasonal floods and the ongoing drought.

“AMISOM troops have helped HirShabelle administration during this drought. Their role is not only limited to security but have also taken part in constructing roads, encouraging interaction among communities, restoration of governance and facilitating reconciliation among clans,” he said.

Saadia Abdikarim, one of the participants echoed the Minister’s sentiments, saying AMISOM had brought positive changes in the region.

“The interaction between AMISOM and us, the community, youth and the region as a whole is great. When they first came, we were living in desperate conditions. There was curfew in the town; it would only open at 11 o’clock. They have been very supportive.”

The Deputy Governor for Security and Political Affairs, Hiiraan region, Ahmed Fodade, also attended the meeting.