UK releases £2.75 million for fight against Al-Shabaab in Somalia

The United Kingdom (UK) has released £2.75 million ostensibly for support towards the fight against Al-Shabaab militants, who still control large swathes of rural central and southern regions in the Horn of Africa nation.

According to the UK, the money will be diverted towards assisting in transportation and provision of food and communication equipment to the Somali Security Forces who are in the frontlines as the war against al-Shabaab takes shape.

In addition, the money that has been released through the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) will also help in medical evacuations, capacity building, and sustainability of operations in various regions across Somalia.

Reports further indicate part of the money will be used to equip the Somali National Army with Very High Frequency (VHF) communication systems and train them in maintaining and installing these systems.

“Over the years, the UK has been the central donor to the Trust Fund in support of SSF. This most recent contribution shows their unwavering commitment in support of strengthening logistical support and capacity building to the benefit of Somalia’s brave men and women," said Dr. Aisa Kirabo Kacyira, the Head of UNSOS.

Presently, UNSOS supports close to 15,000 security forces in Somalia, with a huge percentage being members of the Somali National Army. The national army is working closely with the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) troops who are assisting with the stabilization of the country.

The UK’s commitment to achieving a secure and stable Somalia is evident through its significant voluntary contributions to UNSOS, totaling over £20 million since 2022. This includes £5 million donated in January 2024 and another £5 million in December 2023.

The ATMIS contingent has started withdrawing from Somalia in compliance with the Somali Transition Plan (STP) and upon full exit this year, the government will use local security forces in the enforcement of Internal rules and security.

GAROWE ONLINE