Somalia's federal government has clarified that the withdrawal of Ugandan troops deployed under a bilateral agreement does not mean all Ugandan forces are leaving the country. The clarification comes after the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) announced the withdrawal of troops deployed in Somalia under bilateral arrangements. According to Somalia's National Security Adviser, Ambassador Aweys Haji Yusuf Ahmed, the withdrawn troops are mainly those deployed under a separate agreement between Somalia and Uganda.
Aweys stressed that Ugandan forces serving under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) remain in the country and will continue their duties alongside other mission contingents and the Somali National Army. He made the clarification after chairing a tripartite meeting involving the Somali federal government, AUSSOM, and the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS). The meeting aimed to strengthen coordination and cooperation among the parties.
The UPDF announced on November 2 that it had begun withdrawing troops deployed in Somalia under bilateral arrangements, with the first contingent already returning to Uganda. The withdrawal of those troops was expected to be completed within days. However, all Ugandan forces in Somalia, including those serving under AUSSOM, are expected to leave by the end of 2027.
The tripartite meeting reaffirmed the commitment of the three parties to strengthening their coordination framework to improve cooperation, strategic planning, and logistical support for AUSSOM and the Somali National Army. Participants also emphasized the need for sustained, predictable, and adequate international support to accelerate Somalia's security transition and consolidate gains from ongoing military operations.
Somalia continues to rely on international support to sustain security operations against al-Shabab militants and strengthen its national forces. The country faces significant security challenges, and the support of international partners remains crucial. The withdrawal of Ugandan troops deployed under bilateral agreements has raised concerns about the potential impact on Somalia's security situation.
Ambassador Aweys Haji Yusuf Ahmed emphasized that the withdrawal of troops should not be interpreted as the departure of all Ugandan forces from Somalia. He highlighted the continued presence and commitment of Ugandan forces serving under AUSSOM. The Somali government is working closely with international partners to ensure a smooth transition and maintain stability in the country.
The situation in Somalia remains complex, with ongoing efforts to stabilize the country and combat militant groups. The clarification on Ugandan troop withdrawal aims to provide assurance about the continued presence of international support. Key stakeholders are working together to address security challenges and support Somalia's transition to self-sufficiency.
Key points
- Somalia's National Security Adviser clarifies Uganda's troop withdrawal
- Ugandan forces under AUSSOM to remain in Somalia until 2027
- International support crucial for Somalia's security transition
