By Horn Africa News
MOGADISHU — Burundi is expected to withdraw its forces from Somalia by the end of this year, while Egypt has confirmed plans to deploy troops to replace them under the African Union’s new mission in the country.
The Egyptian troops will join the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), which was launched to continue supporting peace and stability after the gradual drawdown of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).
Somalia’s Ministry of Defence welcomed the completion of training programs for Egyptian military units that will be deployed under AUSSOM, describing the move as a clear demonstration of Cairo’s commitment to backing peace and security efforts in Somalia.
The African Union Peace and Security Council has formally approved Egypt’s participation in the mission, underlining the country’s growing role in supporting regional security initiatives. Somali authorities also praised the AU and international partners for their contribution in strengthening national security institutions and countering threats from Al-Shabaab and ISIS-linked groups.
Egypt’s entry into the Somalia mission comes at a time when the country is grappling with regional political tensions, particularly its longstanding dispute with Ethiopia over the management and sharing of the Nile River’s waters. Analysts say the deployment could serve as a strategic move by Cairo to reinforce its regional influence while balancing both security and political challenges.
The shift from Burundian to Egyptian forces within AUSSOM highlights both the evolving nature of international support for Somalia and the broader geopolitical dynamics shaping the Horn of Africa.
