African peacekeepers keep a daily patrol of the ravaged streets of Mogadishu. It has become a riskier itinerary, as Islamist extremists have gained ground. Insurgent forces often target African Union forces, considered puppets of the government.

Commissioned by the United Nations, the troops have been deployed in Mogadishu for two years and at least 43 have already been killed in combat. Danger can materialize pm every street corner -- and the convoys patrol the capital’s most strategic streets. At least 20 makeshift roadside bombs have targeted these convoys since January 2009.

Last defence

These troops, often referred to ‘green helmets’, are the last line of defence for president Sharif Cheikh Ahmed, who lives under de-facto house arrest in his Villa Somalia, overlooking a capital ravaged by 20 years of civil war.

The AU peacekeeping force also took over the work of various aid agencies, which have all deserted the country leaving it in a state of dire need. Their work includes supervision of aid tents that serve as makeshift clinics, and supply the population with some food and basic first aid.

The United Nations has prolonged the peacekeeper’s mission for another eight months. The ones in the field are anxiously waiting for reinforcement: they’re supposed to be 8,000 strong, but only count 4,300 among their ranks.