Somali forces moved to Raskambooni to take over security responsibilities from Atmis.

The Somali government deployed soldiers to Raskambooni in the Lower Juba area on Monday as part of its continuing military offensive against al-Shabab and preparations to take over security duties from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).

The commander of the Somali National Army’s (SNA) 18th Battalion of Special Soldiers, Lieutenant Colonel Hassan Iraqi, indicated that the deployment intends to recover regions formerly controlled by ATMIS soldiers, notably Kenyan contingents.

“The forces are tasked with taking over all areas vacated by ATMIS. We have a duty to provide security throughout the nation and must remove al-Shabab,” Iraqi told state media.

The deployment corresponds with Somalia’s national strategy aspirations to shift to a third peace support mission. The African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) is expected to replace ATMIS on January 1, 2025, continuing efforts to stabilize the nation.

The army presence in Raskambooni coincided with the re-election of Ahmed Mohamed Islam Madobe as Jubbaland President for a third term, which has increased political tensions between the federal administration and Madobe. The federal government has publicly challenged Madobe’s re-election, claiming it illegitimate, as it strives for unified national elections and administration.