Egyptian Troops Set for Deployment to Somalia After Completing AU Mission Training

GOOBJOOG NEWS|MOGADISHU: Egypt is set to make its first military deployment to Somalia under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), a move that marks a new chapter in regional peacekeeping and signals shifting alliances in the Horn of Africa.

According to the African Union Peace and Security Council, Cairo will contribute around 1,091 troops to the mission, which has an authorized strength of about 11,900 personnel including military, police, and civilian staff. Egyptian units recently completed their first training program ahead of deployment. They are expected to take over positions in Middle Shabelle, a volatile region that has long been a frontline in the fight against Al-Shabaab.

The Somali Ministry of Defence confirmed the development this week, describing Egypt’s contribution as a boost to national security efforts and a sign of stronger ties between Mogadishu and Cairo. “Despite funding and logistical challenges, this milestone underscores Egypt’s commitment to supporting Somalia’s security and strengthening the capacity of the Somali National Army,” the ministry said in a statement.

In addition to combat troops, Egyptian police personnel will be deployed to urban centers including Mogadishu, Jowhar, and Baidoa, where they will work alongside counterparts from Nigeria and Sierra Leone to improve civilian protection and urban stability.

Egypt’s entry into AUSSOM comes after months of uncertainty over whether Cairo would follow through on its pledge. Delays prompted the African Union to extend the presence of Burundian forces to prevent security gaps. Funding shortfalls have also raised concerns about the mission’s sustainability.

AUSSOM replaces the long-running African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), with a sharper focus on supporting Somali security institutions as they assume greater responsibility for territorial control. Alongside Egypt, major contributors include Uganda with about 4,500 troops, Ethiopia with 2,500, Djibouti with 1,520, and Kenya with 1,410.

Analysts say Egypt’s deployment reflects a broader strategic shift. By stepping into Somalia’s stabilization effort, Cairo not only strengthens its ties with Mogadishu but also asserts itself in the Horn of Africa at a time of competition over regional influence and Red Sea security.

Whether Egypt’s forces can quickly integrate into AUSSOM’s operations remains to be seen, but their arrival marks a significant addition to Somalia’s fight against Al-Shabaab and a test case for the new mission’s viability.