Somalia: AU troops hand over strategic base to Somali forces ahead of exit

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has handed over a strategic military base to the Somali National Army, which is now the fifth of the Forward Operating Bases to be handed over in the second phase of the withdrawal of peacekeepers from Somalia.

Qorilow Forward Operating Base is situated in the Hiraan region within HirShabelle and has been very strategic in the fight against Al-Shabaab militants. The base has been hosting a Burundi contingent since 2014 when it was first inaugurated.

“I urge my SNA colleagues taking over the base to continue working closely with other security forces based in this region in collaboration with the civilian population. I thank the local community for the support given to our troops,” said Lt. Col. Jean Baptiste Nahishakiye, the ATMIS FOB Commander, terming the handover as a significant milestone in the peacebuilding process.

SNA commander Harun Hassan will be taking charge of the facility, coordinating the Somali National Army which will be tasked to fight Al-Shabaab. Col Nahishakiye and Santosh Koka, from the Transition Planning Cell, signed on behalf of ATMIS and UNSOS, respectively, ATMIS reports.

Harun, a veteran within the Somali National Army, exuded confidence that the local troops will leverage skills garnered from peacekeepers to effectively tackle insecurity within the region.

“I want to assure you that we will continue from where you have left. I would like to thank the Burundi forces for your selfless service in securing this base and the local community for many years and wish you a safe journey back home,” said Lt. Harun.

The second phase of the drawdown resumed on Monday with the handover of State House and Parliament FOBs. The process is in line with the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 2710 (2023), mandating the withdrawal of 3,000 ATMIS troops by 31 December 2023.

So far, at least 5000 soldiers have left the Horn of Africa nation and the remaining will be leaving by the end of December 2024. The government of Somalia has vowed to fight Al-Shabaab and subsequently, restore order and stability in the country.

GAROWE ONLINE