A delegation from the African Union, led by General Cheikh Dembele, Head of the African Union’s Political Affairs, Peace and Security Department, Peace Support Operations Division, today visited the Forward Operating Base in Qoryooley, Lower Shabelle, Somalia.
During the visit, General Dembele met with the UPDF Contingent Commander, Brigadier General Anthony Lukwago Mbuusi, and local leaders.
The meeting, held at the Forward Operating Base (FOB), aimed to assess the progress of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and discuss the planned drawdown of troops by December 2024.
Brigadier General Mbuusi briefed the delegation on the achievements of the 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, Brigadier General 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citing the need for Somali National Security Forces to take over security responsibility in areas where ATMIS has withdrawn.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.
General 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 Major General Marius Ngendabanka, Deputy Force Commander for Operations and Plans, among others.