MOGADISHU, Somalia – In a significant move, the United Kingdom has committed an extra £7.5 million to back the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), wrapping up its duties by December 2024, aiming to curb the al-Shabaab threat in the Horn of Africa.
This donation, totaling almost $10 million, lifts the UK’s total funding for ATMIS and its forerunner, AMISOM, to £77 million since 2021. The European Union and the United States, through the United Nations, primarily finance this mission.
The funds are earmarked for stipends for troops from participating countries, namely Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Burundi, which collectively deployed about 22,000 soldiers for ATMIS. However, last year marked the start of their strategic withdrawal, with a complete draw-down expected this year.
These uniformed heroes are essential in fortifying Somalia’s security, collaborating with the Somali National Army to safeguard key infrastructure and battle the al-Shabaab insurgency. Upon the current mission’s conclusion, the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) will step in by late 2024.
British Ambassador to Somalia, Mike Nithavrianakis, noted, “Backing ATMIS is an investment in Somalia’s present security and its future prosperity.” He also urged global collaborators to contribute to Somalia’s journey, stressing a shared duty in regional safety.
Somalia’s Defence Minister, Abdikadir Mohamed Nur, lauded the UK’s unwavering partnership, stating, “This funding is pivotal for supporting ATMIS and Somali security efforts.” He underscored the value of global assistance in fostering a secure and sustainable Somalia.
The AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, also showed appreciation for the UK’s donation, reinforcing the necessity for ongoing global aid, a sentiment echoed by the UK government.
“A heartfelt thank you to the British Embassy for their steadfast support to the AU and for this generous £7.5 million donation to ATMIS. We call upon other allies to emulate the UK and invest in Somalia’s security to secure enduring peace and stability in both Somalia and beyond,” he urged.
Somalia anticipates that the collaboration with the US Africa Command and the peacekeeping forces will effectively combat the Al-Shabaab militants as they work alongside the Somali National Army (SNA). By 2027, local forces aim to fully assume security responsibilities.
AXADLETM
