UN Security Council says 3,000 more AU troops to leave Somalia by September

The African Union (AU) has announced the withdrawal of an extra 3,000 troops from Somalia by the end of September. This move is part of the AU mission’s ongoing conclusion after nearly two decades of operation in the Horn of Africa nation, with a complete pull-out anticipated by December 2024.

Resolution 2687 (2023), passed on June 27, grants authorization from the United Nations Security Council to the African Union, permitting the deployment of a maximum of 17,626 uniformed personnel to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) until September 30, 2023. From October 1 to December 31, 2023, the authorized personnel strength will be reduced to 14,626 individuals.

Furthermore, the UN Security Council has urged the African Union to carry out the Phase 2 drawdown to 14,626 personnel in collaboration with the Government of Somalia, based on the findings of the Joint Technical Assessment.

The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has successfully handed over control of all seven Forward Operating Bases (FOBs). These bases include Xaaji Cali, Miirtugo, Cadale, Albao, and Marka Ayub, marking a significant milestone in their mission’s progression.