Uganda has begun withdrawing its troops from Somalia after nearly two decades of military involvement, marking a significant development in the African Union’s long-running efforts to support security and stability in the country. The withdrawal comes at a time when international financial support for the peacekeeping mission is facing growing uncertainty.
According to Anadolu Agency, Uganda’s decision comes amid mounting financial pressure on the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), following the United States’ move to withdraw funding and logistical support for the operation.
Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, announced that the withdrawal process had started, with a complete pullout targeted for August 2027.
The development raises important questions about the future of international security operations in Somalia, where African Union forces have played a major role in supporting government efforts to combat militant groups and strengthen national security institutions.
US funding concerns put peacekeeping mission under pressure
The withdrawal comes as disagreements over the mission’s funding and operational arrangements continue to affect international support for Somalia’s security efforts.
In a diplomatic note dated July 1, the United States informed the African Union that it would oppose the renewal of AUSSOM’s authorisation at the United Nations Security Council if the arrangement included logistical or operational support from the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS).
Washington has also expressed frustration with the Somali federal government, pointing to what it considers insufficient progress in security sector reforms. The US has raised concerns about the ability of Somali national forces to independently secure and control their territory after nearly two decades of international assistance.
Another major point of disagreement concerns the financial burden of the mission. The United States has opposed a funding structure under which international organisations would cover more than 90 per cent of the operation’s combined costs.
The reduction in American financial support has already affected the mission’s resources. A 25 per cent cut in UNSOS funding, linked to the withdrawal of the US contribution, has placed additional pressure on frontline operations.
A phased withdrawal replaces an abrupt funding deadline
The United States initially set a deadline of December 31, 2026, for ending its support. However, Washington subsequently negotiated a 12-month extension with the UN Security Council.
Under the revised arrangement, the withdrawal of UN logistical services is expected to begin gradually in January 2027, providing additional time for the transition.
Despite the extension, the financial challenges remain significant. A gradual reduction in logistical assistance could affect essential services that help African Union forces operate in Somalia, including transportation, fuel supplies, medical evacuations and other operational requirements.
The transition period is therefore likely to be important for Somalia, the African Union and international partners as they consider how to maintain security operations while reducing dependence on external funding.
Uganda’s long-standing military role in Somalia
Uganda has been one of the most important contributors to international security efforts in Somalia. In 2007, it became the first country to deploy troops under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).
The mission was established to support Somalia’s internationally recognised government and help address security threats, including those posed by the militant group al-Shabaab.
Over the years, African Union forces have supported military operations, helped protect key institutions and contributed to efforts to strengthen Somalia’s security capabilities.
AMISOM eventually transitioned into the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia before the launch of AUSSOM on January 1, 2025.
The current mission places greater emphasis on strengthening Somali national security institutions, protecting civilians and preparing local forces to assume full responsibility for the country’s security.
Uganda’s planned withdrawal represents a significant moment for a mission in which the country has played a central role for nearly 20 years.
The challenge of sustaining Somalia’s security operations
AUSSOM relies on essential logistical assistance from UNSOS, which provides services including food, water, fuel, troop transportation and medical evacuation support.
The wider UN support framework operates with an annual budget of approximately US$500 million, highlighting the scale of the resources required to sustain international security operations in Somalia.
Any substantial reduction in these services could create operational difficulties if alternative funding and logistical arrangements are not established in time.
For Somalia, the challenge extends beyond replacing international financial assistance. The country must continue developing capable national security forces, strengthening its institutions and ensuring that security responsibilities can be transferred without creating gaps that armed groups could exploit.
The withdrawal process will also require coordination among the Somali government, the African Union, contributing countries and international partners to minimise disruption to ongoing security operations.
What Uganda’s withdrawal means for Somalia
Uganda’s decision signals a new phase in the international community’s involvement in Somalia. After years of military and financial assistance, questions surrounding funding, national responsibility and the long-term sustainability of peacekeeping operations are becoming increasingly urgent.
The planned withdrawal does not automatically mean that all international security support will end. However, the changes facing AUSSOM underline the need for clear transition arrangements and reliable resources to support the mission’s remaining objectives.
Somalia’s ability to strengthen its own security institutions will be central to what happens next. The country will need to build on the progress achieved through years of international cooperation while addressing the security challenges that continue to affect its territory.
As Uganda works towards its planned departure by August 2027, the coming months will be critical in determining how the African Union mission adapts to reduced financial support and how quickly Somali forces can assume greater responsibility.
Ultimately, the transition will test whether years of international military involvement have created a sustainable foundation for Somalia’s long-term security. The outcome will matter not only to Somalia and Uganda but also to regional stability across the Horn of Africa.
Source: Bernama–Anadolu Agency
