Somalia Praises Burundian Forces Amidst Tensions Over AUSSOM Transition

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Somalia says it deeply respects the contributions of the Burundian Forces in the stabilization of the country, just a few days after diplomatic sources hinted at brewing fallout over the ongoing transition of the AU Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) arrangement.

Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, Somalia’s Foreign Minister, said the country is deeply grateful for the contributions of the Burundian troops in the fight against Al-Shabaab, adding that their effort shall forever remain recognized after years of "enduring legacy".

"We deeply honor the Burundian forces of AMISOM/ATMIS for their sacrifices in supporting Somalia’s security and revival and fighting terrorism. Their bravery is etched in history, and Somalia remains forever grateful for their enduring legacy," he said in a tweet.

Sources said Burundi wants an allocation of more than 2000 soldiers as opposed to the 1041 allocated by Somalia in the new mission dubbed the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

Burundi maintains the number is insufficient and could compromise the support and operational safety of its troops. Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, Somalia’s Defence Minister, said the allocation to troops contributing countries had been agreed upon.

However, a Burundian diplomat confirmed the differences in the troops' numbers.

“The Somali officials disrespected us by allocating numbers that would’ve exposed our soldiers. Ungrateful can’t capture enough the sentiments of Burundians towards Somalis. Well done!” the official told VOA.

“Unless something changes between now and 31st December we will go home. We are not dying to stay. We were disrespected and deserve an apology” the Burundian diplomat added.

Somalia is also opposing the participation of the Ethiopian troops in the new mission, citing the recent differences that were triggered by the secret agreement between Ethiopia and the Somaliland region. The differences have since been mended following a meeting in Turkey.

GAROWE ONLINE