Uganda Begins Troop Withdrawal From Somalia After Nearly Two Decades of Peacekeeping

Uganda Begins Troop Withdrawal From Somalia After Nearly Two Decades of Peacekeeping
Uganda is withdrawing its troops primarily due to shifting Major international backers like the United States have scaled back or ended key funding streams for the African Union coalition, prompting Uganda's military leadership—announced by General Muhoozi Kainerugaba—to start a phased exit. All Ugandan forces are scheduled to leave completely by the end of 2027.
Uganda was the very first African nation to send boots on the ground to Somalia in 2007 under the original African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM). Back then, the fragile transitional government was under heavy attack by Islamist militants. Ugandan forces played a massive role in driving Al-Shabab out of the capital, Mogadishu, and reclaiming major towns and government infrastructure.
Al-Shabab remains an active, dangerous affiliate of al-Qaeda that still controls large chunks of central and southern Somalia. Even as international missions evolved into ATIS and later the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), the threat hasn't vanished. Critics and regional observers worry that pulling out too fast leaves a security vacuum that the militant group could exploit.
For Somalia, this move is a major test of sovereignty and readiness. The Somali National Army is expected to step up and take over full control of the country's defense. However, it puts immense pressure on local forces—especially with upcoming national elections and lingering political disputes threatening stability.
Over the next year or so, the phased drawdown will force Somalia and its remaining international partners to scramble for alternative funding and training support. Whether the Somali army can hold the front lines against Al-Shabab without heavy African Union backing will determine if the country stays stable or slips backward.
The Road Ahead:Security, Stability and Somalia's Future
Somalia will need stronger military leadership to manage security operations.
Cooperation between the government and international partners will remain important.
The government must ensure that soldiers receive regular salaries and proper equipment.
Al-Shabab may attempt to exploit weaknesses during the withdrawal.
Protecting civilians should remain a major priority.
A successful transition could help Somalia become more independent in managing its security.
And also they needs more training.