(08-07-23) MOGADISHU – Handing over security responsibility back to the Somali government, the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has transferred seven Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) to the Federal Government. The event in Mogadishu, marking this significant shift, was attended by the United Nations Special Envoy, Catriona Laing.
During the handover ceremony, Catriona Laing highlighted the substantial progress the FGS has achieved in its continuous efforts towards creating a peaceful and prosperous Somalia. The transfer of control over these key bases signifies a remarkable development in the ongoing journey of Somalia’s sovereignty and self-governance.
Laing also took the opportunity to commend ATMIS and the Troop Contributing Countries (TCC) for their indispensable support towards stability and security in the region. ATMIS’s initiative to hand over these bases to the FGS is seen as a major step in bolstering the federal government’s authority and capacities.
The Forward Operating Bases have been crucial operational centres for ATMIS in their mission to counter extremist groups and foster peace and stability in the war-torn nation. With the handover, the FGS is expected to continue the mission and further reinforce security in the country. The transition underscores the FGS’s growing capability and commitment to managing the nation’s security and peace-building efforts.
