By Horn Africa News
CAIRO – Egypt has accused Ethiopia of trying to cast doubt on its deployment of troops to the African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
The accusation follows remarks by Ethiopia’s ambassador criticizing Cairo’s planned involvement, which Egypt says are intended to sow suspicion about its objectives in Somalia.
Diplomatic sources in Cairo said Addis Ababa is attempting to mislead other troop-contributing nations into opposing or refusing cooperation with Egyptian forces.
Egypt insisted its role in Somalia is transparent, rooted in partnership, and aimed at peacekeeping and counterterrorism operations against al-Shabaab. It rejected suggestions of hidden agendas against Ethiopia.
Somalia’s Ministry of Defense welcomed Egypt’s participation in ATMIS, calling it a sign of Cairo’s growing commitment to Somalia’s stability and security.
The African Union Peace and Security Council has already endorsed the Egyptian deployment, with the first group of troops completing peacekeeping training.
In August 2024, Egypt and Somalia signed a military cooperation protocol for 2025–2029, under which Cairo also delivered military equipment to Mogadishu.
