...a union consisting of 53 African states, most run by dictators of one flavor or another. The only all-African state not in the AU is Morocco. Established in 2002, the AU is the successor to the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), which was even less successful...
security forces have embarked on joint security operations in Hiraan region to clear main supply routes to facilitate delivery of humanitarian aid
to the population, the mission said on Friday.The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) said the joint operation in south-central Somalia region has so far clear 16 improvised bombs (IEDs) and is also aimed at improving freedom of movement.
"The forces are opening the main supply routes connecting Beletweyne and Jalalaqsi to facilitate safe and timely humanitarian assistance delivery," it said.
The allied forces have been pursuing a renewed offensive against al-Shabaab
...
the personification of Somali state failure...bad boys, who in 2011 were forced to retreat from the capital, Mogadishu.
The UN has warned that a blockage of supply routes will spark a rise in prices and reduction of basic commodities in recovered towns that could further worsen food security in the affected districts.
The joint forces are reportedly taking main towns and moving along the main roads, but al-Shabaab has in some cases maintained control of supply routes, hindering the delivery of humanitarian and commercial supplies to affected people.