This archive report was first published on 22 June 2021.
On June 20, 2021, the African Union Mission in Somalia (Amisom) announced the relocation of its Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Marianguwaay, a stronghold of the militant group Al-Shabaab, to another area in the region.
The Marianguwaay FOB was established in October 2014 to facilitate the movement of troops between the port cities of Marka and Barawe. However, following the relocation, the FOB is now closed, and the land ownership has reverted to the government.
According to Brig Gen Don Nabasa, the Uganda Contingent Commander, the relocation is part of a harmonized joint operations plan laid out in April by Amisom and the Somali National Army (SNA) to enable Somali Security Forces to assume security responsibilities ahead of Amisom's exit.
“The recently concluded sector commanders conference guided by Amisom Concept of Operations harmonized several tasks for execution by Sector I, which included the relocation of troops from Marianguwaay Forward Operating Base to another area to beef up security. This will enhance operational efficiency as we pursue the AMISOM mandate,” said Brig Gen Nabasa.
Before the relocation, Amisom troops conducted a clean-up that involved removing structures and levelling the ground to restore the environment in line with Amisom's environmental standard operating procedures.
The Governor of Lower Shabelle, Abdikadir Murshid Sidi, praised Amisom's efforts in weakening the insurgents in the region, making it necessary for Somali Security Forces to take over security responsibilities.
“Amisom has helped us reach great milestones. The transfer of security responsibilities from Amisom to Somali Security Forces is as a result of efforts and sacrifices made by our African brothers in the fight against terrorist group Al-Shabaab. Marianguwaay has been one of the most peaceful areas,” Mr Sidi said.
