AMISOM promised to cut down its presence in Somalia by 1,000 troops. The UN Security Council made this decision on behalf of AMISOM.
The decision to reduce the troops comes at a time when Al-Shabaab seems to be increasing their influence in the region.
In a unanimous decision, the council voted to draw down the number of soldiers serving in Somalia. However, it promised to revisit the decision if violence worsens.
By reducing its troops, AMISOM will have a contingent of 19,626 soldiers in the country. Despite that, it will maintain the 1,040 officers who currently serve in Somalia’s police force.
A transition plan that AMISOM agreed upon in 2017 will see it handing over security gradually to Somalia forces.
Nevertheless, African Union is concerned that the decision could have a negative impact since the country is preparing for the 2021 General Elections. Published on