Somalia and Uganda Defense Ministers Emphasize Smooth Transition from ATMIS to AUSSOM

In a joint communique, Somalia’s Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur and Uganda’s Defense Minister Jacob Markson Oboth Oboth underscored the importance of a seamless transition from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to the newly established African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) by January 1, 2025. The defense ministers called on the international community to bolster Somali forces’ capabilities to facilitate AUSSOM’s successful departure and ensure security stability post-transition.

This transition represents a critical shift in Somalia’s journey toward self-reliance in security. The ministers emphasized that an effective, well-supported Somali National Army is key to sustaining peace and security as ATMIS concludes its mission and AUSSOM assumes a support-based role.

To continue coordination, the ministers agreed to convene a follow-up meeting in Mogadishu from November 15-17, 2024. The meeting will allow both countries to assess the progress of the transition and discuss further steps needed to empower Somali security forces in line with international support efforts.