MOGADISHU, Somalia – The African Union (AU) insists there won’t be a gap in security once the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) troops depart, who have safeguarded civilians for 18 years.
Mohamed El-Amine Souef, the AU’s representative for Somalia, assured that Somalia will not be left vulnerable after the troop withdrawal.
ATMIS, entering its third phase, plans to pull out 4,000 additional soldiers by June, adding to the 5,000 already withdrawn in 2023. This will leave 13,000 troops out of the original 22,000-strong contingent.
Souef, during a two-day visit to Jowhar, emphasized that, despite the troop reduction, security will not be compromised. His statement was released Saturday evening in Mogadishu.
He mentioned that the transition would be meticulously coordinated with Somalia’s federal government and international allies. The Somali National Army will assume security duties as ATMIS troops exit.
While in Jowhar, Souef praised the Burundian forces for their vital role in combating al-Shabab, urging continued vigilance and cooperation with Somali security forces and locals.
Souef noted, “Our contingent’s efforts are well received by everyone we met, including the president, civil society, elders, and officials. Their dedication and willingness to assist in civil-military relations and security were applauded.”
The mission includes troops from Kenya, Ethiopia, Burundi, Djibouti, and Uganda, all of whom have been crucial in pushing back Al-Shabaab, particularly over the past two years.
Marius Ngendabanka, the ATMIS deputy force commander for operations and plans, reaffirmed the mission’s dedication to bolstering peace and collaboration with the Somali National Army in securing Hirshabelle State.
Ngendabanka stated, “We are committed to helping Somalia achieve peace and stability and will persist in this mission.”
AXADLETM
