Ugandan troops hand over Barawe and Shalanbood to Somali army
The transfer of strategic towns in Lower Shabelle tests Somalia's security capacity without foreign support.
Ugandan troops have handed over security responsibility for the towns of Barawe and Shalanbood in southern Somalia to the Somali National Army (SNA). This handover marks the end of over a decade of Ugandan military presence in these key locations, including a strategic coastal town and a settlement on a major transport route.
Ugandan military spokesman Col. Chris Magezi announced on Monday that the withdrawal of troops deployed under bilateral arrangements is effective immediately. The phased drawdown will eventually include all Ugandan forces in Somalia, with a full withdrawal expected by the end of 2027.
The departure places scrutiny on the SNA's readiness to hold territory, following previous instances where Somali forces lost control of settlements after international troops withdrew, such as Biyo Cadde and Mahas. The transition occurs amid political divisions that risk diverting resources from national security efforts.
Why it mattersSomali citizens in Barawe and Shalanbood face uncertainty about continued security following the withdrawal of Ugandan troops.