MOGADISHU – The African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) has reaffirmed its dedication to Somalia’s peacebuilding and stabilization initiatives as Africans across the continent and the diaspora mark Africa Day.
In a statement issued on Monday, AUSSOM emphasized the value of African unity, solidarity and collective action in promoting peace, stability and development throughout the continent, while acknowledging Somalia’s advances in recovery and state-building.
“Today, we stand with the people and Government of the Federal Republic of Somalia (FGS), alongside millions of Africans across the continent and in the diaspora, in observing Africa Day, a historic event that celebrates African unity, solidarity, and our common hopes for peace, stability, and prosperity,” the statement declared.
Nearly Two Decades of African Solidarity
The mission pointed out that Africa Day holds particular importance for Somalia and the African Union community, noting that African nations have supported Somalia for nearly two decades in peace, stabilization and reconstruction efforts.
“Africa Day bears special meaning for Somalia and the African Union (AU) family. For almost two decades, African nations have stood side by side with the Somali people in backing their path toward peace, stabilization, state-building, and recovery. Somalia’s progress and resilience demonstrate the power of African solidarity and joint action.”
This support has been formalized through AUSSOM, which was launched in early 2025 as the successor to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). The full operationalization of AUSSOM has been a priority for the African Union as it seeks to stabilize the country and support the gradual handover of security responsibilities to Somali forces. The UN Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2809 (2025), extending the authorization for AUSSOM until December 31, 2026, while the United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) is set to conclude its operations by October 31, 2026.
Honoring Sacrifices of Somali Forces and AU Personnel
AUSSOM also honored Somali security forces, civilians and African Union personnel for their contributions in establishing peace and stability in the nation.
“As we observe this significant day, we acknowledge the sacrifices made by Somali security forces, the Somali people, and AU personnel who have diligently worked to restore peace and stability throughout the country. Their bravery and dedication continue to inspire hope for a secure and thriving Somalia.”
The mission restated its ongoing collaboration with the Federal Government of Somalia in enhancing security institutions, backing stabilization initiatives and encouraging sustainable peace and development.
“AUSSOM, in close cooperation with the FGS, remains dedicated to supporting Somali-driven initiatives to strengthen security institutions, advance stabilisation, safeguard communities, and establish foundations for sustainable peace and development.”
The Ministry of Internal Security and AUSSOM have vowed complete dedication to freeing the nation from the Al-Shabaab insurgency, following a series of high-level diplomatic meetings and successful frontline offensives in the Lower Shabelle region. AUSSOM has also reviewed its operations to strengthen support for Somalia’s security transition, reaffirming the African Union’s commitment to protecting security gains and supporting the gradual handover of responsibilities to Somali institutions.
Somalia’s Central Role in Africa’s Future
The statement also recognized Somalia’s resilience and role in Africa’s future, portraying the Somali people as showing determination, enterprise and persistence despite current difficulties.
“As Africa pursues the goals of Agenda 2063, Somalia remains essential to the continent’s vision of ‘The Africa We Want’ – an Africa that is peaceful, unified, secure, and guided by its own citizens.”
AUSSOM additionally acknowledged troop- and police-contributing nations serving under the mission, alongside international and regional partners assisting Somalia’s stabilization path. The mission currently draws military personnel from Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia and Djibouti, with Burundian troops substituting for yet-to-deploy Egyptian forces. The European Union has approved a €75 million ($87.7 million) funding package for AUSSOM, ending months of uncertainty and negotiations.
Call for Renewed Unity and Cooperation
The statement concluded with an appeal for renewed unity and collaboration among African nations in tackling the continent’s common challenges and creating a future based on peace, opportunity and hope.
AUSSOM Head Ambassador El Hadji Ibrahima Diene has previously reaffirmed the African Union’s unwavering commitment to supporting Somali-led peacebuilding, stabilization, and political processes, emphasizing that the mission is fully aligned with Somalia’s national priorities. Egyptian troops have completed training ahead of deployment to Somalia under AUSSOM, with a mandate focused on stabilisation, capacity-building, and counter-insurgency operations.
Recommended Reading On ftlsomalia.com:
