Uganda Begins Troop Withdrawal From Somalia After Two Decades

Uganda has officially initiated the phased removal of its military personnel from Somalia, marking a significant shift after nearly two decades of continuous deployment. The initial contingent consisting of 109 troops from the Uganda People's Defence Forces departed from Mogadishu on Friday. This move followed a public announcement by the country's army chief, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, regarding the gradual handover of security responsibilities to local forces.

The phased withdrawal process is scheduled to run continuously until its planned completion in August 2027. Despite this drawdown, Uganda is not completely terminating its military presence in the region. Separate units deployed under bilateral security arrangements will remain stationed in the country. Official estimates indicate roughly 4,500 personnel served under the African Union framework, while approximately 2,000 personnel operate through bilateral agreements.

Uganda originally made history as the first African nation to dispatch soldiers to Somalia in 2007. Operating under successive African Union mandates including Amisom, Atmis, and the recently established Aussom, these forces worked closely with the Somali National Army. Their combined efforts successfully drove al-Shabab out of Mogadishu and multiple strategic regional towns, securing vital government infrastructure against the al-Qaeda-linked militant group.

Ugandan forces are gradually leaving Somalia, handing security over to local troops after twenty years.

Future Security Transitions

Meanwhile, the broader international mission faces emerging challenges concerning its financial backing. Plans to wind down funding from the United States and the United Nations have created uncertainty around the future stability operations. A twelve-month transition period is slated to commence in January, providing regional authorities adequate time to identify alternative financial resources.

Why it matters

The country was the first to contribute troops to the AU mission established to stabilise Somalia in 2007. This ongoing departure signifies a major turning point in regional security operations, as domestic Somali forces gradually assume full responsibility for protecting their nation against prolonged insurgent threats.