AUSSOM assumes command of British base to bolster operational capacity
Opened in 2017 as the United Kingdom Mission Support Team’s (UKMST) principal military facility in Somalia, OB SHAND will now function as a key hub for AUSSOM to expand its operational reach.
Mogadishu, 28 March 2026 – The African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) has taken formal control of Operating Base SHAND from British forces, marking a new chapter for international support operations in the Somali capital.
Opened in 2017 as the United Kingdom Mission Support Team’s (UKMST) principal military facility in Somalia, OB SHAND will now function as a key hub for AUSSOM to expand its operational reach.
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At the handover ceremony, Ambassador El-Hadji Ibrahima Diene, Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) and Head of AUSSOM, described the transfer as a tangible expression of collective resolve toward Somali peace, security and stabilisation.
“This handover is a milestone in enhancing our collective operational and coordination capabilities,” Amb. Diene said. “It reflects our joint efforts to improve training, logistics, and force protection, ultimately supporting effective mandate delivery.”
Amb. Diene underlined that close cooperation between the African Union, the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS), and international partners remains essential for long-term progress. He also thanked the British Embassy and the UK government for their sustained support of AU and Somali-led peace initiatives.
“We reaffirm our unity of purpose,” Amb. Diene added. “AUSSOM remains committed to supporting a Somali-led peace, security, and stability process.”
British Ambassador to Somalia Charles King underscored the United Kingdom’s ongoing contribution to Somalia’s security architecture, saying UK efforts will continue to target terrorism, protect civilians, build stability, and consolidate the achievements of AU and Somali forces.
“This base is our latest contribution, equipped and ready to facilitate future headquarters operations rather than serving as a base for UK support,” Amb. King said. “I look forward to seeing it host AU staff, with the delivery of future mentoring being delivered through an African-owned facility.”
Amb. King also praised AUSSOM, Troop and Police Contributing Countries (TCCs), and the FGS for their steady commitment to strengthening the Somali-led security framework and enhancing government capacity.
The ceremony drew senior officials including AUSSOM Police Commissioner AIGP Hillary Sao Kanu, Sector One Commander Brig. Gen. Jackson Kayanja, and military, police and civilian personnel from both AUSSOM and the UK.
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