Beledweyne, Hiiraan (Dawan Africa) – Djiboutian forces serving in the African Union Stabilization and Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) participated in the grand celebration of the 48th anniversary of the foundation of the Djiboutian Armed Forces on June 9, 2025. The official commemoration took place in the city of Beledweyne, Hiiraan region.
Djibouti's National Armed Forces Day is celebrated annually on June 6, honoring the efforts of the military in maintaining security in Djibouti and the region since the foundation of the armed forces in 1977. The ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials from the Djiboutian government and local community leaders, who praised the courage and dedication of Djiboutian forces in maintaining security in Somalia, particularly in the Hiiraan region.
Colonel Said Waberi, the commander of AUSSOM Sector 4, highlighted the vital role played by the Djiboutian forces in ensuring stability and security in the region. He emphasized that Djibouti has been actively involved in the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and AUSSOM for 14 years, contributing to the establishment of peace and stability in the country.
"Our role in Somalia is crucial, particularly in the fight against terrorist groups such as Al-Shabaab, as we continue to work on strengthening the overall security of Somalia," said Colonel Waberi.
The event also recognized several Djiboutian units that have participated in security operations in Beledweyne, Bula-burde, Jalalaqsi, and Dhusamareb. Military officials and local elders praised the contributions of the Djiboutian forces, especially their responsiveness to community needs and their dedication to security, emphasizing the importance of their support to the Somali people.
Djiboutian forces were first deployed to Somalia in 2011 as part of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), and have since become integral to the country’s security efforts.
The celebration concluded with a farewell and prosperous ceremony attended by representatives from the United Nations and other international organizations, who commended the Djiboutian forces for their contributions to security and overall stability in Somalia.
