The aviation unit of the Burundian contingent serving with the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) in Sector 5 continues to play a vital role in strengthening security efforts in Somalia.
From troop transportation and medical evacuation to aerial surveillance and logistics support, the unit has become an essential component for AUSSOM troops and Somali Security Forces (SSF) to operate effectively in frontline areas affected by insecurity.
Maj. Jean Claude Nizigiyimana, the team leader of the aviation unit in Sector 5, describes the department as a critical section for operational effectiveness in the field.
According to him, the aviation team conducts reconnaissance flights and escorts military convoys and patrols, helping troops detect and avoid threats posed by armed groups such as Al-Shabaab.
“The aviation unit supports operations through reconnaissance and aerial surveillance, allowing troops to move more safely, respond effectively to security threats and avoid casualties,” Maj. Nizigiyimana said.
Maj. Jean Claude, who has served in the Burundian military for 19 years, said he joined the armed forces out of patriotism. Serving under AUSSOM gave the opportunity to contribute to regional peace and stability beyond Burundi’s borders.
“As a Burundian and as a patriot, I decided to join the military to defend my country against any external aggression and also to guarantee the sovereignty of my country,” Maj. Nizigiyimana said.
He explained that the unit has particularly enhanced capabilities of SSF by helping them plan safer and more coordinated military operations against Al-Shabaab. Through aerial support and intelligence gathering, the unit contributes to improving decision-making and operational safety in conflict-prone areas.
“The aviation operations in Sector 5 have a direct impact on Somali security forces by improving situational awareness and planning of more effective operations,” Maj. Nizigiyimana said.
In addition to surveillance operations, the aviation unit also facilitates troop movement and conducts Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) and Evacuation (CASEVAC) missions, enabling the rapid evacuation of injured personnel from frontline positions to medical facilities. These timely interventions have helped save lives and ensured that wounded soldiers receive urgent medical attention.
According to him, the aviation unit has strengthened coordination between AUSSOM troops and SSF while boosting the confidence and safety of personnel conducting operations in dangerous areas.
Maj. Nizigiyimana noted that the aviation unit faces several challenges that affect its smooth operations, including mechanical issues, adverse weather conditions, and occasional miscommunication.
However, these challenges are overcome through detailed mission planning, regular safety inspections, and a strong emphasis on teamwork and coordination, which he believes have significantly contributed to the unit’s operational success and achievements.
The dedication and leadership demonstrated by Maj. Nizigiyimana are recognised as heroic contributions that have played a crucial role in saving the lives of many troops on the frontline.
Through effective coordination, timely decision-making, and continuous support during military operations, the aviation unit has enabled safer troop movement, rapid medical evacuations, and improved operational security in high-risk areas.
As security operations continue across Somalia, the role of Maj. Nizigiyimana and his team remain essential in supporting peacekeeping efforts, protecting frontline personnel, and advancing the broader mission of restoring peace and stability in the region.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
