On the frontlines of Somalia’s long journey towards peace and stability, some of the most important work happens quietly, carried out by people whose efforts often go unseen.
Behind the scenes, they ensure that every officer in the field has what they need to serve, protect, and endure. One such figure is DSP Gifty Essel-Dadzie of the Ghana Police Service, with her experience, calm leadership and logistical expertise which she applies every day in supporting the implementation of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
DSP Essel-Dadzie serves as the Ghana Formed Police Unit Contingent 4 (GFPU) as Logistics Officer and Public Information Officer in Baidoa, South West State of Somalia.
“I joined the Ghana Police Service about 25 years ago. It was a passion I had from childhood. After my tertiary education, I immediately enlisted,” she said.
That early sense of purpose has since taken her across some of the world’s most complex peacekeeping environments. From Liberia in 2004 to Darfur in 2009, and later South Sudan, DSP Essel-Dadzie has built a career defined by resilience and service.
In Somalia, her role is both demanding and essential. A typical workday starts at 8 a.m., when she begins reviewing operational checklists before moving across different unit sections. “I ensure that each team has what they need to perform their duties,” she explained. “From logistics to welfare, I support them throughout the day until the end of the day.”
Her responsibilities go far beyond administrative oversight. At the core of the AUSSOM Police mandate is support to the Somali Police Force (SPF) in maintaining security, managing public order and protecting civilians. DSP Essel-Dadzie’s contribution lies in making sure her fellow officers are always mission ready.
“I take care of their accommodation, health, food, water supply, and operational logistics,” she said. “If they are prepared and supported, they can deliver on the mandate effectively.”
Her motivation remains unwavering as collaboration is central to her work. She coordinates closely with key mission partners.
“The desire to achieve our mission mandate of securing peace and stability in Somalia is what motivates me. Every time we step out with the Somali Police Force to maintain peace and order we get closer to achieving our mission of securing Somalia,” DSP Essel-Dadzie said.
Her deployment has also shaped her understanding of Peace Support Operations. “I’ve learned that peace is complex,” she reflected. “It cannot be achieved by one entity alone. It requires collaboration. It must consider cultural, religious and social dynamics.”
Balancing multiple roles is no small task, but DSP Essel-Dadzie draws on years of experience and the support of her colleagues. “I’ve served in similar positions before, including in South Sudan. That background, along with continuous in-mission training and teamwork, helps me manage my responsibilities effectively,” DSP Gifty added.
Among her proudest moments are those shared with her fellow comrades. “Receiving our medals was very special; it recognized our contribution to the mission,” she recalled. “We’ve also successfully carried out patrols, escorted high-level delegations and supported humanitarian efforts. These are experiences I will always carry with me.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
