(06-07-24) MOGADISHU (Halqabsi News) – The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) handed over its military base in Abdale Birole, Lower Jubba region, to the Somali National Army (SNA) on Sunday. The military base, previously under the responsibility of ATMIS-Kenyan Defence Forces, is the fourth to be transferred as part of the Phase Three drawdown.
The handover ceremony was attended by officials from the Federal Government of Somalia, the Jubaland administration, and ATMIS representatives.
A spokesperson from the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) stated that the transfer of the base is part of a wider plan to gradually shift security responsibilities to Somali forces. UNSOS pledged continued support for the SNA, similar to the assistance provided to ATMIS during its tenure.
The handover is part of ATMIS’s phased withdrawal plan, which includes troop reductions and operational changes scheduled for later this year. This transition marks a step towards Somalia’s goal of assuming full control over its national security.
Halqabsi News
