Mogadishu - The United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) has supported the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) with 200 ten-person tents as part of the mandated non-lethal logistical support package funded through the Somali Security Forces (SSF) Trust Fund.

The Head of UNSOS, Assistant Secretary-General Aisa Kirabo Kacyira, officially handed over the 200 tents in five sea containers to Somalia’s Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, Brig. Gen. Madey Nurey Sheikh, during a ceremony at the UNSOS logistics base in Mogadishu. The inclusion of containers ensures efficient transport and streamlined delivery to the front line to SNA.

The tents were provided in direct response to a request from the Somali National Army Leadership, aimed to provide essential support and operational readiness for troops deployed across various operational theatres, engaged in combat operations against Al-Shabaab. 

“You have always requested for tents that are small enough to enable you to do tactical movements, and not too big to make you static. I am delighted that you will have the tents and continue to deliver on your mandate and take full responsibility for the security of Somalia.” Kacyira said.

The ASG also praised international partners and donors for their continued support of the Somali Security Forces (SSF) through the UNSOS-administered SSF Trust Fund, which facilitates the smooth transfer of security responsibilities from African Union troops to Somali forces. 

Brig. Gen. Madey thanked UNSOS and donors for tirelessly supporting the Somali Security Forces through their contributions to the SSF Trust Fund. 

“The tents provided will be essential in providing shelter to the military personnel. We will ensure that they get to soldiers deployed on the frontline to enable them conduct operations without disruption,” said Brig. Gen. Madey. 

Through the Trust Fund, UNSOS provides non-lethal logistical support to 18,900 SSF personnel, including food, communication equipment, fuel, tentage, transportation, field defense stores and casevac support to facilitate their security operations.