Kenya, US Strategize on UNSOM's Future Amid Somalia's Call for Withdrawal

Kenya's Defence Secretary Aden Duale recently today held a meeting with the United States Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa (SEHOAUS) Michael Hammer.

The discussions centred around critical security arrangements in Somalia following the anticipated withdrawal of peacekeeping forces from the country. Duale emphasized that the primary objective of the meeting was to address the post-Atmis security landscape in Somalia. Specifically, the talks aimed to develop strategies for maintaining peace and security, reflecting the longstanding commitment of both nations to peacekeeping and counterterrorism efforts in the region.

The timing of this meeting is particularly noteworthy as it comes in the wake of Somalia's unexpected request for the United Nations peacekeeping mission to exit the country by October 2024. In a letter dated May 5, 2023, the Republic of Somalia expressed appreciation for the UN's efforts during the longstanding mission but signalled a desire to transition to a different level of cooperation. The Somali Foreign Affairs Ministry stated, "As a result of the successful collaboration between the Government of Somalia and the United Nations Mission, we believe that it is now appropriate to transition to the next phase of our partnership. We are confident that the achievements and lessons learned during the mission's presence will continue to guide our efforts towards sustaining peace and prosperity."

The UN reportedly received this withdrawal request with surprise, especially considering that Somalia had previously sought an extension for the peacekeeping forces' presence. However, the new development confirms Somalia's urgency in concluding the mission. Consequently, Somalia has requested the "swift conclusion of the necessary procedures for the termination of the Mission by the end of the mandate in October 2024."

Meanwhile, Kenya had previously announced its intention to withdraw its forces by the same deadline, raising concerns about potential security challenges in the East African region following the withdrawal of peacekeeping forces. Despite these uncertainties, Somalia remains steadfast in its belief that the country possesses adequate capabilities to manage its own security moving forward.