Second phase of ATMIS forces drawdown to conlude by September – Officials

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: The African Transition Mission in Somalia commander Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding has said that preparations for the second phase of the ATMIS forces drawdown set to conclude by end September is on course.

Speaking while briefing journalists Tuesday, Okiding also stated the various gains the forces have achieved in its support to the Somali Security Forces in the ongoing offensive against the Al-shabaab militants at various parts of the country.

Lt. Gen. Okiding further stated that ATMIS will continue working closely with the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS), the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), and other partners to ensure a smooth transfer of security responsibilities to the Somali Security Forces.

He reiterated that ATMIS would put in place measures to avoid a security vacuum when it exits Somalia by the end of December 2024.