Uganda has started a phased withdrawal of its troops from Somalia after nearly two decades of service. The transition will continue until August 2027.
Uganda recently started the process of pulling its soldiers out of Somalia. This move marks the end of nearly twenty years of military presence in the region.
Next, the first group of 109 soldiers left Mogadishu on Friday. General Muhoozi Kainerugaba announced this significant change in military policy.
Also, Uganda was the first African nation to join the mission in 2007. They arrived to protect the local government from Islamist fighters.
Furthermore, General Muhoozi stated that the country is ready to hand over security duties. He acknowledged the long history of sacrifice and bloodshed during this period.
Meanwhile, the withdrawal will occur in several stages. Officials expect the entire process to finish by August 2027.
However, Uganda will keep some forces in the country. Troops serving under a separate bilateral agreement will stay to provide ongoing support.
Currently, about 4,500 Ugandan soldiers serve under the African Union. Another 2,000 troops operate through these specific bilateral security deals.
As a result, these forces helped push al-Shabab militants out of key cities. They worked closely with the Somali National Army to secure important areas.
Then, the mission transitioned through several groups over the years. The latest effort aims to strengthen local security institutions and local training.
Finally, the future of these missions faces some financial uncertainty. International support from the United Nations and the United States may soon change.
Still, a twelve-month transition plan starts this coming January. This gives leaders more time to find new ways to fund regional stability.