Friday, July 4, 2025 — HAN
Uganda chaired the 1287th session of the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council (PSC), which focused on the security situation in Somalia and the future of the African Union’s Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
This high-level meeting, held virtually, brought together senior officials from Somalia, the African Union, the United Nations, the regional body IGAD, the European Union, and several other AU member states.
The meeting was opened by Uganda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Lt. Gen. Abubakhar Jeje Odongo, who paid tribute to the Ugandan soldiers who lost their lives in a military aircraft crash near Mogadishu on July 2. He described them as heroes who sacrificed their lives for the peace and unity of Africa and offered heartfelt condolences to their families. The Minister reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to supporting peace and stability in Somalia and the wider Horn of Africa region.
Discussions focused on the ongoing threat posed by extremist groups, particularly Al-Shabaab, to Somalia’s security. The bravery and efforts of Somali security forces and AU troops were praised for defending vulnerable communities and countering Al-Shabaab.
Participants collectively commended the courage of AUSSOM forces, especially the Ugandan troops who recently lost their lives in Somalia, and expressed solidarity with the Somali people and the country’s security institutions, which continue to work tirelessly to safeguard peace.
The PSC also addressed the financial challenges facing AUSSOM operations. It was agreed to increase the budget for the AU’s Crisis Reserve Facility to $20 million in 2025 to enhance mission effectiveness. The Council called for stronger cooperation with international partners and proposed convening a dedicated resource mobilization conference to address funding gaps.
The meeting emphasized the importance of complementing security efforts with long-term political, social, and economic initiatives. Council members highlighted the need to accelerate inclusive governance reforms, strengthen dialogue between the federal government and federal member states, and advance reconstruction and development efforts led by local communities to achieve lasting peace.
In conclusion, Uganda’s Foreign Minister reiterated his country’s continued commitment to working with all AU member states, the Somali government, and the international community to build a peaceful, stable, and united Somalia. He made it clear that Uganda would not retreat from its diplomatic and peacekeeping responsibilities in the region. This marks the fifth time Uganda has led the AU Peace and Security Council, contributing to a total of 13 years of leadership in the PSC.
