Revolving around the dynamic landscape of Somalia’s security, the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia, or ATMIS, has recently wrapped up the third phase of pulling its troops from the region. Burgavo Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Jubaland, which sits over 500 kilometers away from the bustling capital of Mogadishu, is now officially under the always-ready wings of the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF).
Tucked away on the southern coast of Somalia, this military installation, once managed by Kenya Defence Forces a part of ATMIS, has been instrumental in turning the tide against Al-Shabaab. Beyond just thwarting their ominous influence, it secured the all-important Burgavo-Ras Kamboni Main Supply Route (MSR), a lifeline in the area.
The official handover ceremony wasn’t just a run-of-the-mill affair but a noteworthy gathering of dignitaries. Col. Meshack Kishoyian, the voice of Sector Two for ATMIS, led proceedings. He was joined by a host of major players, including the Chief Engineer, Col. Suleiman Ibrahim, Maj. Sakariye Mohamed Omar representing SNAF, and the prominent Gen. Mohamed Ibrahim Farah, Badhadhe District’s bigwig.
“The handover marks a shift, a glaring testament to the rising prowess and commitment of Somali Security Forces,” expressed Col. Ibrahim candidly during the event. His words underscored the role of ATMIS, the UN Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), and other allies in this transformative journey.
The solemn act of signing over the documents saw cloaked figures exchanging authority. Outgoing ATMIS Commander Maj. Charles Kaara passed the baton to SNAF’s Maj. Muktar Mohamed, with the emblematic Santosh Koka representing UNSOS’s Transition Planning Cell.
Not one to hold back praise, Col. Ibrahim hailed both ATMIS and SNAF troops for their outstanding efforts in stabilizing the once-turbulent Lower Juba. His confidence in the Somali forces was unwavering. “They have faithfully secured handed-over bases, and with our joint forces, peace will be Somalia’s new normal,” he remarked.
Voicing national spirit, Gen. Farah reiterated the unwavering resolve of the Federal Government of Somalia. “Somalis, our hour is nigh to secure our homeland! Our people are battle-ready to maintain the peace for which ATMIS laid the groundwork,” he exclaimed.
A momentous liberation of Burgavo from Al-Shabaab’s grip dawned in 2011, a significant chapter penned by the concerted efforts of ATMIS and SNA men and women. This strategic FOB has thwarted unwelcome flows into the port town, further crippling Al-Shabaab’s operations, as highlighted by ATMIS Sector Two’s head honcho, Col. Kishoyian.
Appreciative ruminations came from Maj. Sakariye Mohamed Omar, who didn’t mince words acknowledging ATMIS troops’ critical role in diminishing Al-Shabaab’s footfalls in the region. “Safety prevails now in Somalia, and our vigor to protect thrives unyielded,” he passionately shared.
On a more logistical note, UNSOS handed over essential gear to the SNAF, including modern-day essentials like generators and fridges, ensuring the troops run like a well-oiled machine.
The drawdown of ATMIS has been nothing short of milestone in the making, executed over three phases since 2023. Somalia is stepping up—21 military bases have changed hands from ATMIS to Somali hands, and 9,000 troops bid farewell to the country. Each move marks a profound stride towards Somalia knitting its own security tapestry.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
