London, United Kingdom – The United Kingdom has pledged more than $30 million to support Somalia’s ongoing security transition, a move aimed at strengthening Somali forces and sustaining African Union partners in their joint fight against Al-Shabaab.
The funding, announced this week, comes as Somalia accelerates efforts to assume full security responsibility from the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), which recently replaced the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). The package will provide critical training, equipment, and logistical backing to Somali security institutions, while also assisting AU forces tasked with stabilizing areas newly recovered from militants.
The commitment reflects London’s long-standing partnership with Somalia and its determination to support a stable Horn of Africa. Officials highlighted that the assistance will reinforce Somalia’s security forces and back African Union efforts to counter Al-Shabaab’s threat to peace.
Somali authorities welcomed the announcement, describing it as timely support that will strengthen counterterrorism operations and enhance the Somali National Army’s ability to safeguard communities. Analysts say the investment could also help plug urgent funding gaps faced by AUSSOM, which has been under pressure due to reduced international contributions.
Al-Shabaab remains the most significant security challenge in Somalia, carrying out frequent attacks against government officials, civilians, and international targets. The UK’s new contribution adds momentum to Somalia’s wider stabilization plan, which aims to consolidate recent military gains and ensure a smoother transition as AU troops gradually draw down.