MOGADISHU, Somalia — Uganda has begun withdrawing troops from Somalia, with the first group returning home as Kampala plans a complete military exit by the end of 2027.
The first soldiers deployed under a bilateral security agreement with Somalia’s federal government have returned home after leaving Mogadishu, Uganda’s military said.
Col. Chris Magezi, acting director of defense public information, said the withdrawal of troops under the agreement was expected to be completed within days.
Uganda will gradually withdraw its remaining troops serving under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia, known as AUSSOM, by the end of 2027.
The planned departure would end nearly two decades of Ugandan military operations in Somalia, where its forces have played a major security role.
The withdrawal has raised concerns about the security of strategic towns in Lower Shabelle, an agriculturally important region in southern Somalia.
Ugandan troops maintain a significant presence in the region, often described as Somalia’s breadbasket because of its fertile farmland and agricultural production.
Their departure could leave government-held towns, including Barawe, Marka, Bulo Marer, Janaale and Qoryoley, more exposed to attacks by al-Shabab militants.
An AUSSOM communication dated Oct. 31 warned that parts of Lower Shabelle could become vulnerable to al-Shabab attacks following the withdrawal, Reuters reported.
The al-Qaida-linked group maintains a strong presence in surrounding rural areas and has repeatedly targeted government positions across the region.
The announcement comes amid questions about Somalia’s dependence on foreign troops as the African Union mission faces mounting funding challenges.
Ugandan lawmaker Gilbert Olanya claimed last week that Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud told Uganda’s Parliament he could lose power if Ugandan forces withdrew.
His remarks raised questions about the Somali government’s ability to maintain security without continued international military support.
Another Ugandan lawmaker, Naome Kabasharira, said troops could remain in Somalia if Mohamud was willing to finance costs currently covered by the United Nations.
The comments come as Somalia faces growing pressure to strengthen its national forces and prepare them to assume responsibility for security.
Uganda first deployed troops to Somalia in 2007 under the African Union mission, which later evolved into the current AUSSOM operation.
Uganda’s contingent has since played a central role in supporting Somali government troops, securing strategic areas and fighting al-Shabab militants, with its military saying the withdrawal would allow Somalia’s army to assume full responsibility for security across their nation.
