Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya landed in Somalia on a work tour.
In a statement Saturday morning, December 20, the CS said she was in Kismayo to visit the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) troops serving under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission (AUSSOM).
In her company were ranking KDF personnel led by Kenya Army commander Lieutenant General David Ketter.
The CS underscored the significance of the Kenyan forces' contribution to AUSSOM in stabilising Somalia and combating the Al-Qaeda-linked Al Shabaab terror group.
"This mission is key, not only in advancing regional stability and supporting peace efforts, but also in sustaining humanitarian initiatives. It embodies the values of service, responsibility, and solidarity that define the Kenya Defence Forces," she said.
Meanwhile, the CS lauded the Kenyan army men and women for professionally bolstering their colleagues from other countries in the mission.
Tuya explained that her visit was a show of solidarity and support to the teams.
He lauded the teams for their discipline, bravery, and unwavering commitment, promising that the Ministry of Defence would prioritise their welfare, safety, and well-being.
"My visit is in solidarity and to express deep gratitude to the men and women serving far from home and to their families who bear the weight of sacrifice with resilience and grace. As the year draws to a close, and during this festive season, we honour their service and wish them strength, protection, and renewed courage," she said.
The visit came weeks after two police officers were killed and five others injured after their patrol vehicle hit an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) along the Liboi-Kulan road in Garissa County.
The attack, which occurred on Wednesday, November 19, is believed to have been carried out by Al-Shabaab militants who targeted a Border Patrol Unit Land Cruiser during routine patrols.
Authorities reported that one officer died instantly in the blast, while another succumbed to injuries shortly after; five others are undergoing treatment for wounds sustained.
The explosion left the vehicle badly damaged and highlighted the persistent threat posed by militants operating near the porous Kenya-Somalia border.
Security forces have since mounted operations in the area to track down the attackers and strengthen surveillance along the volatile corridor.
