AU appoints new Special Representative for Somalia

The African Union has appointed Nigerien Dr. Maman Sidikou as its new Special Representative for Somalia.In a statement issued on Wednesday, the body said Sidikou will also head the AU Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).

News Keydmedia Online
10 July 2014

According to the AU, Dr Sidikou is credited with a wealth of experience in the political, diplomatic, communication and humanitarian fields.

Dr Sidikou who holds a Ph.D and a Degree in Journalism has been Niger’s Ambassador to the US since October 2011 and also served as Director of his country’s national television.

He was also presidential adviser aside from stints with a number of international organizations and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), including USAID, the World Bank, UNICEF and Save the Children.

The AU said his appointment comes at a time when continued progress has been witnessed in the consolidation of peace and the promotion of reconciliation in Somalia.

Somalia is plagued by an upsurge in attacks by al-Shabaab militants, the latest targeting the heavily fortified presidential palace on Tuesday.

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