The African Union Mission in Somalia has a new Force Commander.
Lt Gen Tigabu Yilma Wondimhunegn from Ethiopia took up office today, from Lt Gen Jim Beesigye Owoyesigire, who has served in that capacity since January 2018.
The handover of instruments of power between the outgoing and incoming force commanders was presided over by Francisco Caetano Madeira, the Special Representative of the African Union Commission Chairperson for Somalia (SRCC), who is also the head of AMISOM.
“There is work to be done, the task ahead is enormous, but I am very confident that you can do it,” Ambassador Madeira told Tigabu during the handover ceremony.
Madeira commended Gen Owoyesigire for “sharing all his knowledge” to push forward AMISOM’s mandate.
Gen Tigabu has a 34-year-experience in the military and has served the Ethiopia National Defence Forces (ENDF) in several capacities, including as Division, Brigade, Battalion and Company Commander.
“This Mission is a challenging one, but we are up to the task,” the incoming Force Commander made an assurance, while assuming office.
Prior to his appointment, he served as a member of the Defence Council and Head of Defence Logistics Main Department, where he was instrumental in planning, delivery, generation and integration of the Defence Capability, among others. He holds a Masters degree in Business Administration, a degree in Leadership and Military Science and a Diploma in Law.
