The Role of African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) in Peace Building in Mogadishu

Problem Statement
Since declaring independence in 1960, Somalia has been marred by decades of violence and conflict as
warring factions fight for control of the state (Healy, 2009). The current African Union Transition
Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) replaced AMISOM's mandate in 2021, continuing efforts to stabilize the
security situation and build peace across Somalia (AU, 2022). However, the future of the country remains
uncertain as Al-Shabaab militants continue sporadic attacks, particularly in the capital Mogadishu
(Menkhaus, 2014). Last year alone, over 800 civilians were killed in Mogadishu from militant attacks
according to United Nations records (UN 2022). This points to an ongoing fragility in the peace building
process. This study therefore aims to assess the role and effectiveness of ATMIS peace building
initiatives in Mogadishu through analysis of security indicators over time.
Research Objectives
1. To examine trends in militant attacks and civilian casualties in Mogadishu since ATMIS
deployment in 2021.
2. To analyze perceptions of security and peace among the Mogadishu population through a survey.
3. To evaluate the capacity and coordination of ATMIS peace building programs including DDR,
security sector reform and community engagement strategies.
Research Questions
1. How has the security situation in Mogadishu changed since ATMIS took over from AMISOM?
2. What are community perspectives on the drivers of insecurity and options for building sustainable
peace?
3. What are the opportunities and challenges facing ATMIS peace building initiatives?
Significance of study

1. Assessing the progress and gaps in ATMIS operations has important implications for
international stabilization efforts and development of Somali security forces.
2. It also provides lessons for future AU peace support missions.
3. The study brings an evidence-based understanding to guide more effective policy and
resource allocation for building lasting peace in Mogadishu.

Research design
A concurrent mixed methods approach is deemed the best research design choice to address this
study's multiple objectives of assessing security trends, local perspectives and peacebuilding
outcomes for ATMIS in a robust yet realistic manner. The triangulated insights will certainly aid
policymaking.