SOMALIA-Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) personnel serving under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) have provided medical services and clean drinking water to residents of Hoosingo as part of efforts to strengthen trust between security forces and the local community.
The KDF team conducted a Key Leadership Engagement and Civil Military Cooperation exercise aimed at addressing some of the most pressing needs raised by residents, particularly access to healthcare and water.
Residents received treatment for common illnesses and health education focusing on disease prevention, hygiene and healthier practices at household and community level.
The troops also distributed clean drinking water to several households affected by persistent shortages, providing immediate relief to residents.
The Ministry of Defence said the outreach was not only about providing humanitarian assistance but also creating an opportunity for security personnel, local leaders and residents to interact and discuss challenges affecting the community.
“Addressing these essential needs not only provides immediate relief but also strengthens cooperation, trust and relationships between security forces and the communities they serve,” the ministry said.
The initiative forms part of AUSSOM’s wider Civil Military Cooperation efforts, which seek to improve relations between peace support forces and communities in areas where security operations are being conducted.
KDF has continued to use community-based initiatives, including medical outreaches and leadership engagements, to respond to local needs while supporting Somalia’s wider peace and stabilisation efforts. Kenya’s Defence Ministry has previously identified community engagement as an important tool for building trust and cooperation between AUSSOM troops and local residents.
