Uganda Begins Troop Withdrawal from Somalia After Two Decades of AU Peacekeeping

Uganda has started withdrawing its troops from Somalia, marking the end of a 20-year military commitment to the African Union peacekeeping mission. Uganda was the first nation to deploy forces under the AU mission in 2007, aimed at stabilizing Somalia amid decades of conflict. The withdrawal signals a significant shift in the international security landscape in the Horn of Africa, as Somali forces take on greater responsibility for their country's security. The move comes as the AU transitions its mission to a new phase, with troop-contributing countries reassessing their commitments. Analysts say the drawdown will test the readiness of Somali national forces to counter threats from al-Shabaab militants. The departure of Ugandan troops, who have played a key role in securing major cities and supply routes, leaves a gap that other partners may need to fill. The next few months will be critical in determining whether Somalia can sustain the security gains made over the past two decades.