The African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) has warned that the withdrawal of Ugandan troops could leave parts of the Lower Shabelle region vulnerable to attacks by Al-Shabaab, raising concerns about potential security gaps as Uganda begins reducing its military presence in the country.
In a letter addressed to the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), AUSSOM warned that the withdrawal of Ugandan troops could create security gaps that Al-Shabaab may exploit. The areas identified as being of concern include Baraawe, Buulo Mareer, Qoryooley and Janaale.
Uganda has confirmed that its troops deployed in Somalia under bilateral arrangements have begun withdrawing, while approximately 4,500 Ugandan soldiers remain part of the AUSSOM mission. Kampala plans to withdraw all its forces from Somalia, including those serving under AUSSOM, by the end of 2027.
The issue has also sparked political debate over the role of Ugandan forces in supporting Somalia’s security and stability.
A Ugandan Member of Parliament recently claimed that Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud told Uganda’s parliament that his continued hold on power depended on the presence of Ugandan troops in Somalia.
Speaking to parliament, the lawmaker said: “The President of Somalia told us that he is in power because of the UPDF, and that the day they leave, it is possible that he may not be president.”
AUSSOM’s warning and Uganda’s troop reduction plans have raised questions about the readiness of Somali security forces to assume responsibility for the country’s security.
The main challenge remains ensuring an orderly security transition without creating opportunities for Al-Shabaab to expand its attacks.
