The withdrawal of troops from key military positions of southern Somalia has raised fresh concerns about security around the capital Mogadishu.
Residents over the weekend told APA that Sabid and Caanoole, Bariire, Awdheegle and Buulo-Gaduud are the four areas from which Uganda has begun withdrawing its soldiers.
These areas are considered strategically important for connecting southern Somalia with Mogadishu and protecting routes leading to the capital.
The areas are particularly significant in Lower Shabelle, a region that has witnessed years of fighting between Somali government forces and al-Shabaab, an al-Qaeda-affiliated insurgent group.
The residents said they do not feel secure as the Ugandan troops have maintained positions in these areas for years, helping secure strategic routes and prevent militant advances towards Mogadishu.
They said unlike before gunfire are being heard after Uganda began pulling forces from Somalia. An army officer told local media that the total pullback could therefore place additional pressure on Somalia’s security institutions as the country prepares for changes in its international military and political support.
Uganda has already withdrawn 109 soldiers who departed from Mogadishu last week as part of a broader plan to reduce its military presence in Somalia.
The Ugandan military announced on November 2 that it would gradually withdraw all its force from Somalia, including troops serving under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia,
The withdrawal is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
MG/as/APA