Defence Minister Aden Duale informed Senators that the Kenya Defence Forces [KDF], which have been stationed in Somalia as part of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia [ATMIS], will complete their withdrawal from Somalia by the conclusion of December 2024.
Minister Duale emphasized Kenya’s commitment to adhering to the Somali Transition Plan (STP). Since the commencement of Operation Linda Nchi in 2011, around 3,500 KDF troops have been deployed to Somalia.
These troops subsequently joined the African Union Mission in Somalia [AMSOM], which has now transitioned into ATMIS. The soldiers primarily operate in Jubaland, receiving support from the European Union and other development partners.
Minister Duale assured the Senators that Kenya does not have any intentions to prolong its presence in Somalia and will adhere to the established plan. He revealed that 400 soldiers had already left Somalia in June 2023 during the initial phase of withdrawal. Additionally, Ethiopia and Uganda each withdrew 400 soldiers, while Burundi and Djibouti withdrew 600 and 200 soldiers, respectively. However, the second phase of withdrawal, scheduled for September 2023, did not occur due to a request made by Somalia to the United Nations Security Council.
Minister Duale explained that Somalia requested a technical pause in the withdrawal process to allow for logistical preparations over the next three months. Consequently, 756 soldiers who were supposed to return home last month remained in Somalia.
The minister declined to disclose the exact number of casualties since 2011. He mentioned that Kenya provides compensation of approximately $40,000 to the families of deceased soldiers, with an additional $50,000 contributed by the African Union and United Nations for those serving in foreign missions. In addition to Somalia, Kenya actively participates in operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Minister Duale acknowledged the significant role played by the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia in stabilizing the country, emphasizing the progress made through ongoing military efforts.
He expressed optimism, stating that Somalia now has a semblance of a stable government, with the Somali National Forces taking the lead in combating terrorism. Minister Duale concluded by assuring the Senators that the days of al-Shabaab in Somalia and the region are numbered.
