The African Union (AU) has announced a significant new wave of support for Somalia’s security efforts and the AUSSOM mission, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to peace and stability in the region.
In a recent meeting, the AU Peace and Security Council (PSC) expressed its full support for the people and the Federal Government of Somalia, emphasizing its dedication to the fight against the Al-Shabaab insurgency and efforts to establish lasting peace and political stability.
The Council specifically praised the Somali Federal Government’s efforts to accelerate national priorities and urged all Federal Member States—including Jubaland and Puntland—to engage in an inclusive national political dialogue process.
Highlighting deep concern over Somalia’s security challenges, particularly the persistent threat of Al-Shabaab, the Council called on Somali security forces to intensify their operations against terrorist groups, while assuring them of ongoing international support.
In a major financial commitment, the African Union announced an additional $10 million contribution to the Emergency Contingency Fund, bringing the total funding available for 2025 to $20 million. This support is intended to strengthen the work of the African Union Stabilization Support Operation in Somalia (AUSSOM).
The AU also called on the United Nations, European Union, the United Kingdom, and other partners to back a proposed fundraising conference for AUSSOM, with the goal of securing sustainable funding for peacekeeping operations in Somalia.
In the coming weeks, the AU Commission is expected to present a detailed report to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) outlining AUSSOM’s new operational bases, logistics needs, and aviation requirements. The goal is to mobilize continued logistical and technical support from the UN Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS).
Finally, the African Union reaffirmed that it will not withdraw from Somalia until there is a comprehensive and irreversible defeat of Al-Shabaab and the establishment of a stable, fully functioning state.
