The AMISOM troops contributing countries have urged UN Security Council to withdraw its resolution 2372 on reduction and drawdown of AMISOM troops.
The leaders from Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Somalia and Burundi have commended Somali Army and AMISOM troops for their efforts to flush out Al-shabab from Somalia.
“The troops recovered 80% of the country’s territory but despite the notable achievement, the situation remains fragile with Al-shabab and other terrorist groups in the Horn of Africa country remaining a threat to Somalia,” Communiquė issued reads in part.
The heads of troop contributing countries said the time frames and troop levels under the resolution were not realistic and would lead to a reversal of the gains made by AMISOM.
“If we do things right, chances of Somalia will be much better anytime soon. Let us avoid new mistakes,” said Uganda president, Yoweri Museveni.
The commissioner of African Union (AU), Faki Mahamat said continued presence of AMISOM in Somalia is crucial.
“The presence of AMISOM in Somalia at moment is crucial as the operation the Al-shabab is underway. Their withdrawal will lead disruption to the operations against the Al-shabab,” Mahamat said.
Last year, UN Security Council had issued resolution 2372 that was calling for reduction and drawdown of Au troops in Somalia.
The resolution was directing AU to withdraw 1000 of its troops by December 2017, a move already abided by some of the troop countries.
Uganda pulled 281 of its troops from Somalia in December last year, according to the country’s spokesman, Brig. Richard Karemire.
The resolution was also asking AU to pull out another 1000 from the nation in May this year and the final final withdrawal was set for 2020.
SNA Training
Despite, Somali forces’ efforts to dismantle Al-shabab, the troops need rebuilding and thorough training to face these challenges.
The five East African countries have urged partners to support the capacity building and training of Somali national army to maintain peace and security in Somalia.
Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed has pledged to rebuild the national army.
“I believe AMISOM and our troops are succeeding but we have a long way to go. We need to collaborate and continue funding to defeat Al-shabab,” said Farmajo.
The call by the AMISOM troop contributing countries comes a time Al-shabab stepped up its attacks against Somali government and the military bases in the country.
In the past ten days, Al-shabab executed over seven attacks in and out Somali capital, Mogadishu.
The group attacked two military base near Afgooye and Bal’ad town on Friday.
They also ambushed AMISOM convoy in Middle Shabelle region
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