The African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) has reaffirmed its deep commitment to strengthening its partnership with the Federal Government of Somalia to bolster the country’s national security framework. The mission renewed this pledge in an official statement issued in observance of Africa Day, celebrated widely across the continent.
El Hadji Ibrahima Diene, the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission and Head of AUSSOM, emphasized that the mission remains intensely focused on supporting Somali-led initiatives dedicated to peace, security, and regional stabilization. This collaborative support is critical to protecting local communities from ongoing threats, restoring long-term peace, and fostering sustainable economic development nationwide, the envoy explained.
In his commemorative message marking Africa Day, Diene remarked, “Despite ongoing challenges, the Somali people continue to demonstrate remarkable resolve in rebuilding their nation, advancing national reconciliation, and driving development.” He added that Somalia’s progressive recovery and current strides reflect the profound strength of continental solidarity and collective African action.
The AU envoy highly commended the relentless efforts and immense sacrifices made by Somalia’s security forces, its citizens, and African Union personnel to restore enduring peace and stability. He pointed out that this coordinated struggle has not only yielded effective results against extremist groups but has also laid a solid foundation for security across the Horn of Africa.
Furthermore, Diene paid a special tribute to the African nations contributing troops and police personnel to the mission, recognizing the high price they continue to pay for Somalia’s peace. He similarly applauded international and regional partners for their synchronized financial, logistical, and diplomatic support toward the nation’s stabilization and recovery efforts.
This high-level policy statement from AUSSOM comes at a pivotal juncture as the peacekeeping architecture in Somalia transitions into this newly structured support and stabilization framework. AUSSOM is structurally designed to enhance the operational self-reliance of the Somali National Armed Forces, working on the frontline to facilitate a seamless transfer of security responsibilities to domestic defense institutions. The address underscores the African Union’s long-term vision of establishing definitive security in the region.
