On March 23, 2025, Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre welcomed the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, to Mogadishu for a two-day working visit.
Their discussions focused on enhancing cooperation between the African Union (AU) and Somalia, particularly in security matters, combating extremist groups, and the role of the newly established African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
Prime Minister Barre expressed gratitude to Youssouf for selecting Mogadishu as his inaugural destination, underscoring the AU’s commitment to Somalia.
He highlighted the Somali government’s recent achievements, especially its vigorous efforts to eliminate extremist threats affecting regional security.
The establishment of AUSSOM marks a significant transition from the previous African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and its successor, the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).
Approved by the AU’s Peace and Security Council on August 1, 2024, AUSSOM officially commenced operations on January 1, 2025, following the conclusion of ATMIS on December 31, 2024.
This mission aims to support and stabilize Somalia, with contributions from various AU member states.
Youssouf’s visit signifies the AU’s ongoing dedication to fostering peace, stability, and development in Somalia, reinforcing the collaborative efforts between the AU and the Somali government in addressing security challenges and promoting regional stability.