In Somalia, several soldiers have been arrested in connection with a standoff between rival army factions in Mogadishu on Monday. At least two soldiers were killed and several injured in the exchange. The infighting is an indication of the difficulty in building a united security force in Somalia. It comes at a time when the UN mission is starting to withdraw its troops from the country. With the threat of al-Shabaab still looming, it's vital for the government to strengthen its defence force to secure the country. Thuli Tshabalala has more.

On Monday heavy gunfire echoed through Mogadishu. Soldiers clash in Mogadishu. One faction storms former UAE training centre. At least two deaths, several injuries reported. This is not the first incident of violence between rival soldiers.

In September last year, at least nine people were killed in fighting between the military and police backed by intelligence forces. Earlier, in May 2017, security officials gunned down the minister for public works -- mistaking him for an Islamist militant. In the same month, local media reported that at least one soldier was killed and two wounded in internal clashes among army troops.

Currently, UN peacekeepers are playing a key role in securing Somalia -- they've been instrumental in the fight against al-Shabaab. But they are due to withdraw from the country by December 2020 -- handing over complete control of Somalia's security to the national army. The government faces a dauting task unifying and strengthening the military, police and intelligence forces.

And with funding and logistical support drying up, it's hoped the training Somali soldiers have received from partner countries and organisations will be enough to ensure they protect citizens.

Thuli Tshabalala, CGTN.