By The African Union Commission Chairperson, H.E. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, has delivered a passionate appeal for renewed global commitment to peace and stability in Somalia, warning that financial delays threaten hard-won gains in the region.
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Speaking at the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) Ministerial Meeting in Kampala, Youssouf reaffirmed that Somalia remains a top continental priority and emphasized that the African Union would not relent in its quest for Somali-led security.
“We honor the memory of the many African peacekeepers and Somali citizens who have laid down their lives for this cause,” he said. “Their sacrifice compels us to remain steadfast.”
Youssouf acknowledged the progress made by the Somali government in reclaiming territory from the Al-Shabaab terrorist group with the support of the AU Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). However, he expressed concern that the ongoing mission could falter without urgent financial support and timely implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2719.
He called for a strengthened commitment from both African Union member states and international donors, pointing out that the $190 million needed to sustain AUSSOM operations this year (excluding arrears) is modest when compared to the global cost of unchecked insecurity. He referenced past incidents, such as Somali piracy, which at one point cost the international community over $7 billion annually.
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“We must match our political will with financial means,” Youssouf urged. “Peace in Somalia is not just a regional issue—it is a global imperative.”
He praised the bravery and dedication of ATMIS forces, Somali security personnel, and international allies. He also applauded the Somali government’s ongoing state-building efforts and encouraged deeper collaboration with all federal member states to promote national unity and long-term peace.
“Peace and stability in Somalia are indispensable not only to the Horn of Africa but to global security,” Youssouf concluded, underscoring the African Union’s unwavering solidarity with the Somali people.
The meeting in Kampala comes at a critical juncture as the AU transitions from ATMIS to a more long-term stabilization mission under AUSSOM, with regional leaders emphasizing the urgency of sustained support and coordinated strategy.
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