In a significant development, the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (Atmis) has officially handed over the Kuday military base to Somali security forces as part of the third phase of troop drawdown. The base, previously manned by the Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) since 2015, played a crucial role in safeguarding the port city of Kismayo in Southern Somalia.
Atmis praised the Somali government for its capacity to take over security responsibilities, with Military Chief Engineer Suleiman Ibrahim emphasizing the importance of cooperation in maintaining security in the region. The handover marks a milestone in the efforts to combat Al Shabaab, with the Lower Juba region being liberated from the group’s control in 2015.
Representatives of the Somali National Army highlighted the necessity of unity in the fight against Al Shabaab, emphasizing the threat posed by the militant group to the entire region. Through the phased drawdown, Atmis has transferred multiple military bases to Somali security forces, demonstrating progress towards local ownership and security. This move aligns with the mission’s commitment to reducing troops and strengthening the capabilities of Somali forces in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
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