One hundred and thirty-four Somali National Army (SNA) soldiers wrapped up two month training at UK funded military academy in Baidoa.
In a statement, the UK embassy in Somalia said that the soldiers drawn from 60th division of the Somali National Army who graduated from the academy acquired skills in field-craft, leadership, human rights, first-aid treatment, patrolling and the delivery of defensive operations.
The UK ambassador to Somalia Ben Fender has expressed his country’s readiness to help Somalia to get formidable army.
“The UK is committed to helping build the capacity of the Somali National Army and Somali Police Force so that you will eventually be able to assume full responsibility for the nation’s security,” he said.
The ambassador lauded the soldiers for completing the training and reiterated his country’s commitment to rebuilding Somalia’s security forces.
“Congratulations to you all on successfully completing this important training. We hope the new skills you have learnt will be of great benefit to you as you join other men and women on the frontline to support long-term security in Somalia,” Ambassador Fender said.
South West state president Abdiazia Hassan Laftagareen implored upon the soldiers to utilised the skills well and train fellow soldiers.
“I urge all of you to work hard and protect our country, please implement the lessons you have learnt during the training and pass on the knowledge to your colleagues. I would also like to thank the UK government for providing support to the Somali people,” the South West leader said.
