Kenyan Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka said on Monday the restoration of peace and stability in war-torn Somalia was critical if the entire Horn of Africa region was to enjoy peace and called on all countries to contribute towards peace.
Speaking during celebrations to mark 'Africa Day' at the Algerian Embassy here, Musyoka said the installation of a functioning government in Somalia was a key requirement for the return of peace in Somalia.
“The installation of a legitimate, functioning government in Somalia is a must if this menace is to be contained. The international community must unite to restore stability in Somalia and end the piracy along its territorial waters,” the Kenyan Vice President said.
Musyoka, who oversaw the formation of the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) in 2004 as foreign minister, said all African governments must unite to restore stability in Somalia and contribute troops to the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).
The Kenyan official spoke as militant group, Al Shabab, claimed responsibility for a truck bomb explosion in Mogadishu, which killed seven people, including six soldiers and a civilian in one of the latest attacks against TFG in Mogadishu.
Fighting intensified in Somalia since 8 May, when the Al Shabab launched attacks against government strongholds in Mogadishu, to challenge the authority of Somali President Sheikh Sharrif Ahmed.
Somalia, which has been without an effective government since 1991, does not have an official police force, an army or any formidable security institution to defend the country.
Inter-clan fighting amongst the five main clans in the country continues to scatter efforts aimed at establishing a central government.
“Instability of Somalia remains a formidable challenge to peace and security in the Horn of Africa,” Musyoka told guests gathered for the Africa Day celebrations.
Meanwhile, Kenyan Foreign Minister Moses Wetangula has challenged the African Union (AU) to unite in the search for a lasting solution to the crisis in Somalia.
“We have to resolve the vicious conflict in Somalia,” he reiterated.
Source: Pana
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