In 10 April 2010, the EU launched a military training mission (EUTM Somalia) in order to contribute to strengthening the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) and the institutions of Somalia.

Initially, training took place in Uganda due to the security situation in Somalia at that time, and in close collaboration with the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). On 22 January 2013, the Council of the European Union extended the mandate of EUTM Somalia to March 2015.

This 3rd Mission Mandate contained a significant change of Mission focus, with the addition of strategic advisory and mentoring activities to complement the training role. In the first months of 2014 EUTM – S Mission HQ was relocated to Mogadishu, along with all advisory, mentoring and training activities, which lead to the closure of all locations in Uganda.

On 16 March 2015, the 4th Mandate prolonged the Mission until December 2016. Whilst maintaining its training capability focusing on leadership and specialized coursed, the mission has increased its advisory activities aimed to build long term capability within the Somali MoD and SNA General Staff.