MOGADISHU The government of Burundi has, for the first time, confirmed that it has withdrawn from the African Union mission in Somalia after “not being satisfied with the number of troops allocated.”

Burundi communicated its decision to the Chairman of the African Union Peace and Security Council, which is currently chaired by Djibouti.

Burundi had requested an additional 2,000 soldiers for the new mission, while Somalia allocated them 1,000 soldiers, which led to Burundi’s decision.

This decision by Burundi could impact the preparation of the AUSSOM mission to fulfill its duties. Burundi is currently one of the leading countries in the African Union mission in Somalia.

The Somali government has thanked the Burundian government for its role in the AMISOM and ATMIS operations, following their announced withdrawal from the new AUSSOM operation in Somalia starting in 2025.

The Federal Government of Somalia has thanked the Burundian forces for their sacrifice and support.