NAIROBI, Kenya

Kenya's Defence Minister Aden Duale met Thursday with the US Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, Mike Hammer, to discuss pressing security challenges in the region.

Key discussion points included addressing security challenges in various countries such as Congo (DRC), South Sudan, Sudan and Somalia.

"Specifically, we deliberated on the security arrangements in Somalia post-Atmis. Kenya, strategically positioned in the region, plays a crucial role in maintaining peace and security, with its longstanding commitment to peacekeeping and counterterrorism efforts," Duale said in a statement.

The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) is focused on supporting Somalia's government in tackling security issues. It began a phased withdrawal from Somalia in December 2022, with the second phase completed in January.

Duale noted that the "meeting highlights Kenya's significance as a key partner for the U.S. in addressing security dynamics in the Horn of Africa."

Hammer welcomed the launch of the Kenya-led High-Level peace Mediation for South Sudan and applauded Kenya’s commitment to regional stability and support for peace.