President Kenyatta assured the new Somali leader that Kenya would remain steadfast in supporting efforts that would bring peace and stability in Somalia/MANOAH ESIPISU
MOGADISHU, Somalia, Feb 22 – President Uhuru Kenyatta Wednesday attended the inauguration of the new Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed and pledged Kenya’s continued support to the Horn of Africa country.
President Kenyatta assured the new Somali leader that Kenya would remain steadfast in supporting efforts that would bring peace and stability in Somalia.
“We shall continue working with other AMISOM troops contributing countries as well as the international community to create an enabling environment for the reconstruction, development and sustainable peace in Somalia,” he said.
President Kenyatta urged the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the African Union and the international community to focus their attention on Somalia and extend the necessary support to the new administration.
He called on all regional players and the International Community to join hands in dealing with external threats in the horn of Africa region, which is also currently experiencing severe drought.
“Our region is threatened by many external interests including foreign terrorist actors and agents. We also face the threat of transnational and cross border crimes,” he said.
President Kenyatta expressed hope that with the support of regional states and the international community, the new Somalia leader would deal effectively with the challenges facing his nation.
President Kenyatta also commended outgoing President Hassan Sheikh Hassan for the achievements his administration made in the last four years, especially the peaceful elections and orderly transfer of power.
“The successful elections and peaceful transfer of power are a clear demonstration of the desire and ability of the people of Somalia to strengthen governance structures and build sustainable peace,” said President Kenyatta.
President Kenyatta arrived at Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu early Wednesday morning and was received by senior Somali government officials.
European Union Special Representative to the Horn of Africa Ambassador Alex Rondos, who also attended the inauguration ceremony, appreciated the great sacrifices made by neighbouring countries towards the restoration of peace and stability in Somalia.
Ambassador Rodos expressed optimism that the new administration would also make similar sacrifices to the neighbouring countries.
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