Education remains a foundation for lasting stability and community development. In Hosingow, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), serving under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), is translating this commitment into action through an initiative aimed at expanding access to education.
The KDF contingent at Hosingow conducted a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a new classroom at Hosingow Primary School. The project is intended to support the school’s transition towards secondary education, bringing learning opportunities closer to the community and reducing the distance learners would otherwise travel to pursue further education.
The initiative builds on the longstanding relationship between KDF and the Hosingow community, strengthened through sustained Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) activities. Beyond infrastructure development, the contingent has also supported vulnerable learners, including orphans, by facilitating access to education and creating opportunities for them to remain in school.
Established in 2014 with support from AUSSOM, Hosingow Primary School currently serves many learners across Grades 1 to 8. As more learners complete primary education, the need for additional facilities has become increasingly evident, particularly in supporting the community’s aspiration for access to secondary education.
Speaking during the ceremony, KDF leaders underscored the role of education in promoting sustainable development, peace and stability. They reaffirmed KDF’s commitment to strengthening civil-military relations through close collaboration with local authorities, school management, parents and community leaders in addressing the needs of the population.
The school management and local leadership welcomed the initiative, expressing appreciation to KDF for its continued support to the community. They observed that the new classroom marks a significant step towards expanding educational opportunities and securing a better future for children in Hosingow.
Through initiatives such as this, KDF continues to demonstrate that its commitment in Somalia extends beyond the security domain. By investing in education, strengthening community partnerships and supporting essential social infrastructure, the contingent contributes to building the foundations for lasting peace and stability.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Defence – Kenya.
