Kenya’s Defence Cabinet Secretary, Aden Duale, has affirmed the nation’s commitment to withdraw more than 4,000 Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) troops from Somalia by December 2024 as part of the African Union Transitional Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).
In an appearance before the Senate, Duale confirmed that the withdrawal process, which follows AU and UN Security Council resolutions, is already in progress and will be executed in stages. He emphasized the importance of the withdrawal aligning with Kenya’s national security interests.
Duale reported that the first phase of the drawdown had been successfully completed in June 2023, with 2,000 ATMIS troops, including 400 from Kenya, returning home.
The second phase, involving the withdrawal of 3,000 more troops, was scheduled for September 30, 2023. However, he noted that the extension of the withdrawal timeline might be considered due to the ongoing conflict between Somali government forces and Al-Shabaab in central Somalia.
Any such decision would be made in consultation with the AU Peace and Security Council and the UN Security Council.
Duale reiterated that Kenya’s commitment to stabilizing Somalia is rooted in its national security interests, as a stable Somalia contributes to a safe and secure region.
KDF troops have played a crucial role in combating Al-Shabaab and reducing terrorist infrastructure along the Kenyan-Somali border.
Mission Somalia
He concluded, “Our national security interest compels us to stabilize Somalia so that the 800km border with Somalia is safe and secure.” Kenya remains steadfast in its commitment to the ATMIS withdrawal plan while ensuring the best interests of national security.
Kenya’s involvement in the ATMIS mission has been significant, with troops engaged in counter-terrorism efforts and peacekeeping activities in Somalia. The decision to withdraw these troops aligns with the transitional nature of the mission and the evolving security landscape in Somalia.
Duale emphasized that any decisions regarding the withdrawal timeline would be made in consultation with international bodies, highlighting Kenya’s commitment to multilateral cooperation in addressing security challenges in the region.
While the withdrawal of KDF troops is planned, it comes with careful consideration of the security implications. Kenya’s priority is to ensure that the gains made in countering Al-Shabaab and stabilizing Somalia are not compromised.
Kenya’s national security interests are closely tied to regional stability, and a secure Somalia is vital for the security of Kenya’s 800-kilometer border with its eastern neighbor. By contributing to the reduction of terrorist infrastructure, Kenya’s efforts have been instrumental in safeguarding its borders and promoting regional peace.
As the withdrawal process continues, Kenya remains committed to working with its international partners to address security challenges and contribute to lasting peace and stability in the Horn of Africa. The decision to withdraw troops reflects the evolving dynamics in the region and Kenya’s dedication to achieving its national security objectives while cooperating with the international community.
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