By Horn Africa News Staff
Malabo, Equatorial Guinea – In a significant move to reinforce peace and stability in Somalia, the Executive Council of the African Union (AU) has approved the release of an additional $10 million from its Emergency Contingency Fund. The decision was made during the Council’s 47th Ordinary Session, which took place in Malabo, the capital of Equatorial Guinea.
The newly approved funds are earmarked for the African Union Stabilization Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), a recently established peace operation aimed at consolidating security and supporting Somalia’s long-term political recovery. AUSSOM officially commenced operations in early 2025, taking over from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), which had played a central role in peacekeeping efforts in the country for several years.
According to the AU, this emergency funding will help bridge immediate financial gaps faced by AUSSOM during its formative phase. The money will be used to strengthen operational capabilities, support troop deployment, and enable the mission to fulfill its key mandates in stabilization, peacebuilding, and the protection of civilians. The AU noted that the initial stages of such missions are often the most critical, requiring solid financial and logistical backing to ensure swift impact and credibility.
AUSSOM was launched with a redefined strategy focused on Somali-led security solutions, aligning with the AU’s broader vision for sustainable peace in the Horn of Africa. The mission aims to support Somalia in building strong state institutions, tackling insurgent threats, and creating an environment conducive to democratic governance and national reconciliation.
Despite its strategic importance, AUSSOM has been grappling with severe financial constraints since its inception, raising concerns over its ability to respond effectively to the persistent threats posed by militant groups such as Al-Shabaab, as well as to maintain control over liberated areas and protect vulnerable populations.
In response, the AU has committed not only to direct funding but also to actively mobilize additional support from its member states and international development partners, including the United Nations, European Union, and bilateral donors. The goal is to ensure that AUSSOM reaches full operational capacity and can sustain its activities in the face of evolving security dynamics.
The deployment of AUSSOM is part of a larger AU policy shift, which emphasizes African-led solutions to African conflicts. The AU leadership reiterated its unwavering support for Somalia’s efforts to rebuild its institutions and promote inclusive governance. They also called on all stakeholders, both within and outside the continent, to continue their collaboration and solidarity with the Somali people during this critical phase of their recovery.
This renewed financial commitment marks a crucial step toward ensuring regional peace and stability, as Somalia remains a focal point of security challenges in East Africa. The success of AUSSOM is seen as essential not just for Somalia, but for the wider region affected by cross-border terrorism, refugee movements, and political instability.
