By HAN News Desk
BRUSSELS — The European Union is expected to formally announce the resumption of financial support for the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) in early 2026, ending a two-year suspension of direct funding, according to diplomatic sources and internal documents seen by The EastAfrican.
EU funding has long been a key pillar of international support for peacekeeping and stabilisation efforts in Somalia, particularly in covering troop stipends and operational costs for African Union forces. The pause in direct financial assistance, which began in 2024, placed significant strain on the mission and prompted concerns over its long-term sustainability.
An EU spokesperson told The EastAfrican that Brussels remains firmly committed to supporting security and stabilisation efforts in Somalia, describing the African Union mission as “an essential component of international efforts to help Somalia transition towards lasting peace and security.”
However, the spokesperson cautioned that discussions among the EU’s 27 member states are still ongoing. As a result, key details of the proposed funding package — including the total amount, the duration of support, and the mechanism through which funds would be disbursed — have yet to be finalised.
Diplomatic sources familiar with the negotiations say the delay reflects broader debates within the EU over how to finance peace operations in Africa, as well as concerns about accountability, effectiveness, and the evolving security situation in Somalia.
The African Union mission, which replaced the long-running ATMIS operation, plays a central role in supporting Somali security forces in their fight against the militant group al-Shabaab, as well as in protecting key infrastructure and political institutions.
Somali authorities and regional partners have repeatedly warned that prolonged funding gaps could undermine recent security gains and slow the planned transition of responsibilities to Somali forces.
If approved, the renewed EU support would mark a significant boost for AUSSOM at a critical moment, as Somalia continues efforts to stabilise the country and strengthen its national security institutions amid ongoing threats.
