The handover of the Abdalla Birolle Forward Operating Base (FOB) from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) has been completed. This military base was previously under the supervision of ATMIS Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and marks the fourth transfer as part of the Phase Three drawdown.
During the handover ceremony, the Deputy Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia (DSRCC), Siyuvile Bam, oversaw the transition. ATMIS Sector Two Commander Brig. Seif Salim Rashid transferred control to SNA representative Major Muhudin Ahmed, with representatives from the United Nations (UN) and Jubaland State officials in attendance.
Mr. Bam emphasized the historical support given by Somalia to freedom fighters from other African countries and expressed the African Union’s commitment to continue supporting peace and security efforts led by Somalia.
Brig. Rashid commended the collaborative efforts between ATMIS KDF contingent and Somali Security Forces in successfully combating Al-Shabaab in Jubaland State. He urged the incoming SNA forces to maintain the security progress achieved and build on the work of ATMIS troops.
Major Muhudin, representing SNAF, expressed gratitude for the sacrifices made by ATMIS KDF in securing Somalia. He reassured confidence in the SNAF’s ability to uphold peace and security within their Area of Responsibility.
UN Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) donated essential equipment to SNAF to ensure the operational continuity of the base. This includes generators, water treatment plants, and water storage tanks.
Additional support and logistical assistance will be provided by UNSOS to SNAF as they take over the FOB. The incoming SNAF FOB Commander, Col. Mohamed Hassan Gabobe, pledged to maintain peace and security within the area.
The local community in Abdalla Birolle town acknowledged the improved security situation brought about by the joint efforts of Kenyan troops and Jubaland State security forces.
The Abdalla Birolle FOB has been pivotal in securing the region and serving as a buffer zone for Kismayo International Airport and the main supply routes connecting Buula Xaaji and Kismayo city.
UN Security Council Resolution 2741 (2024) authorizes the withdrawal of ATMIS troops from Somalia, with a phased drawdown planned to be completed by September 2024.
Press release distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).