AUSSOM takes command of British base in Mogadishu to boost capacity

Tuesday March 31, 2026

Mogadishu (AX) – The African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) formally took over Operating Base (OB) SHAND from British forces in Mogadishu on 28 March 2026, marking a notable shift in support for Somalia’s security mission.

First established in 2017 as the main military operating site for the United Kingdom Mission Support Team (UKMST) in Somalia, OB SHAND is now set to function as a key platform for strengthening AUSSOM’s operational reach and capacity.

At the handover ceremony, Ambassador El-Hadji Ibrahima Diene, Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) and Head of AUSSOM, said the transfer reflects a shared determination to advance peace, security, and stabilisation in Somalia.

“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 said the partnership among the African Union, the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS), and international partners remains essential to building lasting peace. He also praised the British Embassy and the UK government for their long-running backing of AU and Somali-led peace efforts.

“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 continued place in Somalia’s security framework, saying UK support remains focused on countering terrorism, protecting civilians, promoting stability, and preserving gains achieved by 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 commended AUSSOM, Troop and Police Contributing Countries (TCCs), and the FGS for their steadfast commitment to advancing a Somali-led security framework and strengthening state capacity.

Senior officials attended the ceremony, among them AUSSOM Police Commissioner AIGP Hillary Sao Kanu, Sector One Commander Brig. Gen. Jackson Kayanja, along with military, police, and civilian personnel from AUSSOM and the UK.