A debate over the presence of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) in Somalia has raised questions about the mission's objectives. According to Yassin Hassan, Commander of Somalia National Army (SNA), the Kenyan government's interests in Somalia extend beyond combating Al Shabaab.
Hassan alleged that Kenya has taken advantage of Somalia's instability to occupy its territory. He claimed that more than 2km of Somali land is now inhabited by Kenyans, including areas where a Kenya Police Post, immigration office, and customs department are located in Mandera.
Mandera County Commissioner Alex Ole Nkoyo denied these allegations, stating that Kenya has not seized any land from Somalia.
Hassan also accused KDF of collaborating with Al Shabaab in the illegal charcoal trade, suggesting that this partnership is a reason for Kenya's reluctance to withdraw its troops from Somalia. He stated,
KDF know all the hideouts of Al Shabaab but they have never bombed them because they are partners in the charcoal business.
Raila Odinga has previously called for the withdrawal of KDF from Somalia, citing concerns that their presence is not effectively addressing terrorism. Odinga alleged that KDF are involved in trading charcoal with Al Shabaab and selling them guns.
