A delegation from the African Union, led by the Head of the African Union Political Affairs Peace and Security, Peace Support Operations Division, Gen. Cheikh Dembele, yesterday (27 April 2024) visited the Forward Operating Base in Qoryooley, Lower Shabelle, Somalia, where he held with the UPDF Contingent Commander, Brigadier General Anthony Lukwago Mbuusi and area leaders.
The meeting, held at the Forward Operating Base (FOB), aimed to assess the progress of the African Union Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and discuss the planned drawdown of troops by December 2024.
Brig Gen Mbuusi briefed the delegation on the achievements of UPDF, including mentoring Somali National Security Forces, providing peace and security to locals, securing main supply routes, degrading Al-Shabaab, and supporting the community.
However, Brig Gen Mbuusi also highlighted the challenges faced by troops serving under ATMIS, citing the need for Somali National Security Forces to take over security responsibility in areas where ATMIS has withdrawn. He emphasised the importance of consolidating gains and stabilising the Somali Federal Government.
Gen. Dembele reassured the Somali people that there would be no security vacuum when ATMIS troops exit Somalia and pledged continued support to the Somali Federal Government. The delegation also engaged with local leaders and community members, strengthening the partnership between the African Union and Somalia.
Local leaders expressed gratitude for ATMIS’ presence and requested continued support until the Somali Federal Government gains enough capacity to take over security responsibility. The Lower Shabelle Governor, Mr. Mohamed Ibrahim Barre, thanked UPDF/ATMIS forces for supporting medical care, security, and mentoring local forces.
The delegation included Mr. Sivuyile Bam, ATMIS Deputy Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (D/SRCC), and Maj. Gen. Marius Ngendabanka, Deputy Force Commander for Operations and Plans, among others.
