AU Reiterates Orderly Transfer of Security Roles to Somali Security Forces

GOOBJOOG NEWS|MOGADISHU: The African Union has reiterated its commitment to ensuring an orderly transition of security responsibilities to the Somali Security Forces.

Speaking following the conclusion of a security assessment in Somalia, the Head of Division of the Peace Support Operations Division of the AU Cheikh Dembele said the continental body was keen on protecting hard won gains in Somalia.

“A tripartite committee, consisting of ATMIS, the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), and the government of Somalia, will ensure a smooth transfer of security responsibilities to the Somali security forces,” said Dembele

The AU delegation is expected to submit a comprehensive assessment and planning report to the Peace and Security Council of the African Union that outlines the post-ATMIS security framework.

ATMIS has completed the first and second phases of the reduction of 5,000 troops and handed over 13 military bases to the Somali security forces.

An additional 4,000 troops are expected to be withdrawn from Somalia by the end of June, before the end of December, according to UN Security Council Resolution 2710, which was adopted in 2023.