January 7, 2025 – Djibouti City, Djibouti: The Djiboutian Hiil Walaal forces, specifically Hiil 11, have returned to Djibouti after spending a year in Somalia as part of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). The mission officially concluded on December 31, 2024, according to the Djiboutian government.

Senior officials from Djibouti’s armed forces warmly welcomed the returning soldiers at the airport. Upon their arrival, the troops underwent comprehensive medical examinations to ensure their health and well-being after their deployment in Somalia.

During their mission, the Hiil 11 contingent operated primarily in the Hiiraan region of central Somalia. They played a crucial role in securing the area under the ATMIS mandate. This mission aimed to support Somali security forces in stabilizing the region while preparing for a smooth handover of responsibilities.

ATMIS, which succeeded the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), officially ended its mandate in 2024, transitioning to a new operation called the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). Djibouti has confirmed its commitment to participate in the AUSSOM mission, continuing its role in fostering peace and stability in Somalia.

Djibouti has been a steadfast contributor to peacekeeping efforts in Somalia since joining AMISOM in December 2011. Initially deploying 960 troops, the country expanded its presence over the years to include 11,000 personnel stationed in key towns like Beledweyne, Buula-burte, and Jalalaqsi in the Hiiraan region.

In June 2023, Djibouti began scaling down its military presence in Somalia, withdrawing 2,000 troops as part of a broader plan to reduce the number of peacekeeping forces in the country. This effort aligned with the United Nations’ strategy to decrease troop numbers, culminating in a complete drawdown of 20,000 personnel by the end of 2024.