Egypt to Deploy Forces in Somalia Under AU Amid Geopolitical Configurations

GOOBJOOG NEWS/CAIRO: Egypt will now deploy its military to Somalia under the African Union framework in what could shape geo-political undertones in the Horn of Africa amid an ongoing tiff with Ethiopia.

The AU Peace and Security Council has approved a request by Cairo to deploy troops to the newly endorsed African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

The Council endorsed the formation of AUSSOM last week to replace the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) when its term lapsed by December this year.

The entry of Egypt into the AU mission follows a warming of relations between Mogadishu and Cairo in recent months amidst an ongoing Ethiopian row.

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Egypt has in recent months expressed its continued support for Somalia after the controversial MoU between Ethiopia and the break-away region of Somaliland. Analysts see the entry of Egypt as a strong push by Somalia to checkmate Ethiopia.

On its part, also, Egypt views its presence in Somalia as a strategic move in its dispute with Ethiopia over the Grand Renaissance Dam (GERD). The two countries have bitterly disputed over the project as Cairo accuses Addi Ababa of threatening its lifeline by diverting the Nile River water to fill the GERD.

During a meeting with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in January, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi warned Ethiopia against any threats to Somalia. “”Egypt will not allow anyone to threaten Somalia or affect its security,” Sisi said, adding, “Do not try Egypt, or try to threaten its brothers especially if they ask it to intervene.”

AUSSOM will take over from ATMIS in January 2025 as Somalia continues its efforts to build its security forces before it can ultimately take full security responsibilities.