Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the newly elected Chairperson of the African Union Commission, has called upon the international community to provide essential funding for stabilization efforts in Somalia.
He emphasized that maintaining stability and security in Somalia benefits not only its citizens but also the global community.
Youssouf highlighted significant funding shortfalls faced by the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) and urged for renewed international commitment to the country’s peace and stabilization initiatives.
In a joint press conference in Mogadishu with Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Youssouf reaffirmed the African Union’s dedication to supporting Somalia’s pursuit of peace and security.
He acknowledged that securing adequate funding remains a substantial challenge and appealed for continued international support to sustain Somalia’s ongoing security and stabilization efforts.
The African Union has recently launched AUSSOM to replace the outgoing African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).
This new mission aims to further transition national security responsibilities to Somalia’s own forces. However, the mission faces significant funding challenges, making international financial support crucial for its success.
Youssouf’s appeal underscores the importance of collective international efforts in ensuring Somalia’s stability, which is vital for regional and global security.