Wednesday, March 12, 2014
Press Statement
Jen Psaki
Department Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
The AU Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) troops working jointly with the Somali National Army have liberated several towns from al-Shabaab in Western Somalia. These efforts will help spread security and stability to all the Somali people, and accelerate the return of government institutions and services. Our focus will not wane on meeting Somalia’s continued humanitarian needs as the offensive continues.
The United States supports AMISOM and the Somali people’s efforts to defeat al-Shabaab and bring greater peace to their country. We continue to support AMISOM and the Somali National Security Services through the provision of equipment, logistics, and training support. The United States has obligated over $512 million since 2007 to support AMISOM, and over $171 million to build a more effective and professional Somali National Army.