Nairobi, April 14 -- The shape, size and scope of a new force to secure Somalia - after the exit of the current African Union peacekeeping mission at the end of this year - remain unknown as it emerges that the Horn of Africa nation is yet to submit its plan before the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for consideration.

In a communique dated April 3, the African Union said Somalia's plan for a new force to replace the African Union Transition Mission is Somalia (Atmis) will be submitted next month after the continental body undertakes a comprehensive study of the threats and needs on the ground before seeking endorsement of the UNSC.

The troubled Horn of Africa nation missed its initial timeline of end of March when it was expecte...