KDF hosts luncheon to strengthen Muslim troop unity for Somalia mission
By Kiprono Keileb, December 1, 2025Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Muslim troops serving under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) have held a special luncheon aimed at strengthening unity, spiritual connection and teamwork among Muslim personnel deployed in the region.
Speaking through a statement posted on their official X account on Monday, December 1, 2025, KDF said the luncheon was held at the Kismayo Main Operating Base (MOB), where Kenyan Muslim officers hosted their newly arrived counterparts from the Sierra Leone Formed Police Unit Contingent VI (SLFPU VI).
The military said the gathering was meant to welcome the Sierra Leone contingent, nurture brotherhood, and help soldiers maintain spiritual grounding while serving in a demanding operation far from home. The event also provided a rare moment of rest and shared reflection for troops who routinely work under difficult and high-pressure conditions.
During the event, Colonel Samson Kenga, who presided over the luncheon, reminded officers from both countries about the importance of nurturing their faith while on duty.
“Spiritual strength gives you balance and clarity when the mission demands the most from you,” he said.
KDF noted that maintaining spiritual well-being has become an essential support pillar for officers deployed on long-term missions, helping them cope with emotional and psychological fatigue that often comes with peace support operations.
Lieutenant Colonel Galgalo Liban echoed the same message, urging the troops to continue building a strong and supportive community anchored in Islamic values.
He said spiritual nourishment fosters discipline, good conduct and unity, qualities that directly support the success of the peacebuilding efforts in Somalia.
“Lieutenant Colonel Galgalo Liban of the KDF encouraged the soldiers to continue nurturing a strong sense of community grounded in Islamic teachings. He emphasised that spiritual nourishment promotes ethical conduct and discipline, values that are critical to the success of their duties and the broader AUSSOM mission,” the statement reads
The Sierra Leone contingent expressed appreciation for the warm reception.
SLFPU VI Deputy Imam, Yahya Munu, thanked the KDF leadership for creating space where troops from different countries could build lasting bonds and deepen cooperation.
The statement noted that the luncheon also served a wider purpose for AUSSOM: reinforcing cohesion among troop-contributing countries. With forces drawn from across Africa, the mission relies heavily on trust, coordination and shared values to operate effectively in areas affected by insecurity.
KDF said such engagements help soldiers exchange experiences, strengthen mutual respect and maintain morale as they work together toward stabilising Somalia and promoting long-term peace.
“The luncheon underscores AUSSOM’s broader commitment to fostering cohesion among troop-contributing countries. It provided space for meaningful interaction, shared perspectives, and the reinforcement of unity among partners working toward a common mission,” the statement reads