Somalia: ATMIS troops hand over bases to SNA forces

Mogadishu July 02, 2023 (QJ) – The African Union Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has completed its first phase and announced the hand over of its first two last bases after withdrawing its troops.

ATMIS has issued a statement, indicating the casualties of its forces during the operation, which numbers to 2000 soldiers.

All the remaining bases, including Haji Ali, Miirtugo, Cadale, Albao, Gherille, Aljazeera1, and Marka Ayuub, have been handed over to the Somali peacekeeping forces.

The last two bases handed over to Jubaland State authorities were under the command of Kenyan Defense Forces within ATMISOM, with Aljazeera1, located in the outskirts of Mogadishu, being under the responsibility of the Ugandan forces within ATMIS.

The Deputy Commander of the Jubaland peacekeeping forces in Gedo region, Colonel Nur Cabdi Xuseen, praised the Kenyan forces within ATMIS for their participation in efforts to stabilize Somalia.

The United Nations Security Council recently renewed the mandate of ATMIS for six months, considering a gradual reduction of 2000 troops in the mission.

They also emphasized the importance of Somalia’s security and the responsibility of the Somali forces in maintaining the country’s security.