After two decades of bloodshed: Uganda withdraws its forces from Somalia

Uganda has begun withdrawing its forces from Somalia after nearly two decades of military involvement, citing economic difficulties and cuts in international funding. At least 3,500 African Union soldiers have been killed during this period. The first phase of the withdrawal will begin soon, with all troops expected to leave by the end of next year.

Uganda has started withdrawing its forces from Somalia after nearly two decades of military engagement, driven by economic challenges and reductions in international mission funding. Uganda was the first African country to send troops to Somalia in 2007 to combat the al-Qaeda-affiliated terrorist group al-Shabaab and stabilize the local government. Over the years, Uganda maintained between 5,000 and 6,000 soldiers in the region, making it the largest troop contributor to the mission. During the two decades, at least 3,500 African Union soldiers—including troops from Uganda, Kenya, Egypt, and Ethiopia—have been killed in Somalia. The Ugandan army chief of staff stated that after twenty years of "sacrifice and much blood," his country is transferring security responsibilities to local Somali command. The first phase of the withdrawal will begin in the coming days and will involve 2,000 to 2,500 soldiers, with all forces expected to leave Somalia completely by the end of next year. Diplomats and security officials warn that the departure of troops could create a security vacuum in the Lower Shabelle region near the capital Mogadishu, exposing it to renewed attacks by al-Shabaab.