MOGADISHU, Somalia — The Federal Government of Somalia has outlined plans for the transition of security operations from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to the Somali National Army (SNA), marking a significant step in the nation’s path towards self-reliance.
Somalia’s Defense Minister, Abdulkadir Mohamed Noor, announced that the SNA has assumed control of over 27 stations previously managed by ATMIS across the country. Speaking to government media, Minister Noor emphasized that the third phase of the handover process is nearing completion.
“The Somali National Army has successfully transitioned through the third phase,” Noor stated. “ATMIS will fully transition its responsibilities by the end of 2024, with only three months remaining.”
Looking ahead, Noor also discussed the upcoming AUSOM (African Union Support Office in Mogadishu) operation, expected to commence in December 2024. “We are in discussions with the African Union, the United Nations, and various aid agencies to finalize the technical aspects of AUSOM,” he added.
The minister hinted at potential changes in international partnerships, noting ongoing negotiations with the Ethiopian army. “If Ethiopia does not retract from its controversial maritime agreement, they might be excluded from future operations, and other nations could take their place,” Minister Noor warned.
With ATMIS set to conclude its mission by the year’s end, the Somali armed forces are gearing up to fully operate the new security framework independently starting December 2024. This shift signifies Somalia’s commitment to enhancing its national defense capabilities and reducing reliance on foreign military support.
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