MOGADISHU (Halbeeg News) – Somali government said its forces are ready take over the security responsibilities from African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (Atmis) amid analysts express concern over the capability of the government forces to handle the security of the country.
According to a statement, the government said it will work closely with Atmis and its international partners for the timely implementation of the resolution.
“The Federal Government of Somalia is keen to take over the overall Security Responsibilities from ATMIS by December 2024 and appreciates the sacrifices made over the years by African Union Transition Mission in Somalia and its troop, contributing countries in enhancing peace and security in Somalia,” the statement reads in part.
The remarks of the government come days after ATMIS announced that it concluded the first phase of the troop drawdown after handing over the last two Forward Operating Bases (FOBs), Aljazeera 1 in Mogadishu and Gherille in Jubaland State.
Atmis forces handed over seven FOBs to Somali forces. The bases include Xaaji Cali, Miirtugo, Cadale, Albao, Gherille, Aljazeera 1 and Marka Ayub.
The drawdown of the 2,000 soldiers, 400 from each of the five troop-contributing countries – Burundi, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Kenya and Uganda – will bring the size of the force down to 16,586.
The AU troop drawdown is coming at a time when the federal government is preparing to resume military operations against al-Shabab that were interrupted by rains and deadly militant attacks.
The Somali government is also preparing a second phase of operations dubbed the “Black Lion.” Troops from Somalia’s neighbors Ethiopia, Djibouti and Kenya are slated to participate.
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