The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has increased its joint military offensives with Somali Security Forces to bolster the fight against Al-Shabaab. Lieutenant General Sam Okiding, the ATMIS Force Commander, informed the press in Mogadishu that, following a technical pause in the phase two drawdown, ATMIS has reorganized its troops. Forces from the two Forward Operating Bases that were handed over, namely Biyo Cadale and Raga Ceel, now operate as an agile mobile unit engaged in joint offensives against Al-Shabaab. Simultaneously, they continue to secure major supply routes, protect population centers, and carry out routine patrols.
Lt Gen Okiding emphasized that their operations with Somali Security Forces have significantly intensified during the 90-day technical pause in the Phase two drawdown. Notably, they successfully gained control of the Cali Fool-dheere Forest in the Middle Shabelle region, a critical Al-Shabaab stronghold. He acknowledged that the onset of rains has slightly delayed their plans for further liberation efforts in joint offensives. Despite these natural challenges, ATMIS has worked with its partners to prepare for El-Nino and its aftermath, as the rains have impacted some of their Forward Operating Bases, leading to flooding and operational delays.
The Force Commander recently visited Jowhar to meet with their troops and boost their morale for the upcoming joint offensives. He affirmed ATMIS’s dedication to maintaining security and stability in Somalia and building on the successes of its predecessor mission, AMISOM. ATMIS, in operation since April 1, 2022, has upheld AMISOM’s territorial gains, including supporting Somali Security forces in safeguarding land, air, and sea borders. They have also protected population centers and key government installations in Mogadishu and the Federal Member States. Lt Gen Okiding expressed his gratitude to the President of Somalia, H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, for his leadership in prioritizing the offensives against Al-Shabaab.
