NAIROBI (KAAB TV) – In a move aimed at enhancing regional security and readiness, the U.S. Army commenced a series of military exercises in Kenya on Monday, marking the first overseas mission for a select group of Somali soldiers, confirmed by U.S. Africa Command in a statement released the same day.
Joining forces with troops from 22 other nations for the annual Justified Accord exercise, the Danab unit, renowned as the Lightning Brigade, brings Somalia’s elite soldiers into the multinational training.
Included in the exercise are deployed units from the U.S. Army, such as personnel from the Massachusetts National Guard and the 2nd Security Forces Assistance Brigade, highlighting the collaborative effort towards regional stability, according to Lt. Col. Jason Porter, deputy chief of exercises at the Southern European Task Force, Africa headquarters, overseeing the operation.
Addressing real threats while aiding in readiness and preparedness for a range of scenarios including humanitarian assistance and crisis response, Justified Accord serves as a pivotal step in strengthening alliances and capabilities.
“Part of (Justified Accord) is making sure we’re building readiness,” emphasized Porter, underscoring the necessity of such drills given the persistent instability in Somalia, which has often spilled over into neighboring Kenya.
The significance of integrating Danab soldiers into the exercise underscores their pivotal role in Somalia’s counterterrorism strategy, reflecting ongoing efforts by the U.S. Africa Command and its special operations teams to bolster the capacity of Somali security forces.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting ongoing efforts to strengthen the capacity of the Danab Brigade and other Somali security forces,” reaffirmed AFRICOM.
Despite concerted international efforts, the threat posed by al-Shabab militants persists, as evidenced by a recent report indicating a notable increase in fatalities attributed to Islamic militant violence in Somalia.
The drill, scheduled until March 7, marks the largest U.S. military exercise in East Africa, signaling a firm commitment to fostering regional security and cooperation.