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ATMIS handover of Middle Shabelle base to Somali forces marks key phase in troop drawdown
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    Tuesday June 25, 2024



    Mogadishu (HOL) — The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) announced on Monday that it handed over the Middle Shabelle region's Ceel Eglow military base to the Somali National Army (SNA). This marks the third base transferred during the third phase of ATMIS's troop drawdown, which aims to prevent a security vacuum in Somalia.

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    ATMIS Sector Five Commander Oscal Hatungimana praised the collaboration between ATMIS forces, Somali forces, local residents, and international partners in combating the Al Shabaab extremist group. "This partnership has been crucial in degrading the capabilities of Al Shabaab," Hatungimana said.

    The strategic Ceel Eglow base, manned by ATMIS forces from Burundi since 2019, has played a critical role in securing the main supply routes between Mogadishu and Jowhar and supporting both military and humanitarian operations.

    This phase of the drawdown aligns with United Nations Security Council Resolutions 2628 (2022), 2670 (2022), and 2710 (2023), which mandate the withdrawal of 4,000 ATMIS troops by the end of June. The African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) has emphasized a phased approach to ensure Somalia's security and avoid a capability gap.

    During a meeting on June 20, the AUPSC endorsed a new AU-led mission to support Somalia's security transition after ATMIS concludes its mandate at the end of 2024. This new mission will focus on continuing efforts to degrade Al Shabaab, maintain security, and assist in state-building efforts. The phased withdrawal will see 2,000 personnel withdrawn by the end of June 2024 and another 2,000 by the end of September 2024 to prevent security gaps.

    The council also warned that ongoing operations against Al Shabaab and the complete implementation of the drawdown could lead to security challenges in Somalia and the wider region.

    As ATMIS continues its strategic withdrawal, Somali forces are expected to assume more significant security responsibilities and ensure the stability and security of the region.

     





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