KAMPALA — Leaders of African countries contributing troops to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) have called on the United Nations Security Council to extend the mission’s mandate for an additional two years, warning that a premature reduction of international security support could undermine progress made in the fight against Al-Shabaab and weaken Somalia’s ongoing security transition.
The appeal was made during high-level discussions involving African Union member states, Somalia, and AUSSOM troop-contributing countries, where leaders stressed the need for a predictable and sustained international partnership to support Somalia’s efforts to build a capable and independent security sector.
African leaders said AUSSOM remains a vital part of Somalia’s stabilization efforts, providing critical support to Somali security forces, helping secure strategic locations, protecting communities, and assisting the federal government in expanding state authority in areas affected by decades of conflict and militant activity.
They emphasized that Somalia has made important progress in rebuilding national institutions and strengthening its security forces, but warned that the country is still facing significant threats from Al-Shabaab, which continues to carry out attacks and maintain operational capabilities in parts of the country.
The leaders argued that any reduction in international security assistance must be carefully coordinated with Somali authorities and based on conditions on the ground to prevent security gaps that could be exploited by extremist groups.
They called on the UN Security Council to provide continued political backing, financial support, and logistical assistance to ensure that AUSSOM can effectively carry out its mandate while Somalia’s security institutions continue to develop.
The proposed two-year extension comes as Somalia works to accelerate the transfer of security responsibilities from international forces to the Somali National Army and other national security institutions. Officials have repeatedly stated that the ultimate goal is a fully Somali-led security system capable of protecting the country without external military support.
However, African leaders warned that achieving this objective requires a gradual and well-supported transition, including continued training, equipment, operational assistance, and capacity-building for Somali forces.
The request also comes amid growing concerns over the financial sustainability of the African Union mission. AUSSOM replaced the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and began operations in January 2025 with a focus on supporting Somalia’s security transition, stabilization efforts, and the fight against Al-Shabaab.
Since its establishment, the mission has faced funding challenges as international partners review their commitments and seek long-term solutions for financing African Union peace support operations. Officials have warned that inadequate resources could affect the mission’s ability to maintain operations and support Somali forces effectively.
African leaders stressed that continued investment in Somalia’s security is not only essential for the country’s stability but also for regional security in the Horn of Africa, where terrorism, political instability, and cross-border threats remain major concerns.
They urged the international community to maintain its commitment to Somalia’s peace and state-building process, saying that sustained security support will create the necessary conditions for political reform, economic development, and lasting peace.
The future of AUSSOM is expected to remain a key issue in discussions between the African Union, the United Nations, Somalia, and international partners as they seek a balanced approach that supports Somalia’s long-term goal of self-reliant security while preventing setbacks in the fight against Al-Shabaab.
