The Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) has started drawing down its troops in Somalia, Reuters and Citizen Digital reported on Monday. According to Somali broadcaster Shabelle, the withdrawal covers troops sent under bilateral arrangements with Somalia's federal government. It takes effect immediately.
Ugandan troops first deployed to Somalia in 2007 as part of an international military coalition fighting Islamic insurgents, DW reported. The broadcaster said the mission has faced growing pressure since the United States decided to withdraw funding. France 24 reported that the pullout comes as the fight against the rebels continues.
The move follows recent military contacts between the two countries. On October 31, Hiiraan Online reported that Somalia's army chief had asked Uganda to expand training support. On Tuesday, Shabelle reported that the Somali army chief and a delegation had visited the coastal town of Barawe in the Lower Shabelle region. They went to check security and the readiness of troops stationed there. The sources do not say how many Ugandan soldiers are leaving or how long the withdrawal will take.