Bamako, 11 May 2013 – President Pierre Buyoya, Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission and Head of the African-led International Support Mission in Mali (AFISMA), has learned with shock and sadness of the sudden and untimely demise of Bigadier General Yaye Garba, AFISMA Deputy Force Commander, who passed away in his home in Bamako, Mali, today, at the age of 55.

On this sad occasion, the Special Representative extends his deepest condolences, as well as those of the African Union, the Economic Commission of West African States (ECOWAS), and the entire African Continent, to the bereaved widow and family, and to the Government and People of Niger.

“Brigadier General Yaye Garba was a great soldier and an efficient Field Commander, who was highly respected by his superiors and the troops under his command. He was a Senior Officer who had served in several peacekeeping missions, and since his deployment to Mali in January 2013, he discharged his duties as AFISMA Deputy Force Commander with commendable dedication and outstanding efficiency. He will always be remembered as a valiant soldier for peace in Africa and a worthy Son of the Continent.” The Special Representative declared.

May his soul rest in peace.

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