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Kenya, Somalia Calls for Smooth Transition to New AU Security Mission

Storyline:Security

NAIROBI, Xinhua: Kenyan and Somali leaders have called for a smooth transition of security responsibilities from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to the new African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), scheduled to commence in January 2025.

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud arrived in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, on Monday for high-level discussions with Kenyan President William Ruto, focusing on the security transition and enhancing bilateral cooperation.

According to a joint communique released on Tuesday in Nairobi, Ruto welcomed the establishment of AUSSOM, emphasizing its goal to build on the achievements of its predecessor, ATMIS.

The Somali leader praised Ruto for his efforts in supporting state-building in Somalia and his role in restoring peace, security, and stability in the Horn of Africa. “I acknowledge the significant role of the Kenya Defence Forces in the fight against terrorism alongside Somali Security Forces and other ATMIS troop-contributing countries,” Mohamud said.

According to the communique, the two leaders underscored the importance of adequate financing for AUSSOM and noted the need to explore all funding options.

Ruto assured Mohamud of Kenya’s solidarity with Somalia and its commitment to providing necessary support. He also congratulated Mohamud on Somalia’s election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for 2025-2026, noting that Somalia is poised to play a key role in shaping international discourse on peace and security during a critical time of global governance reforms.

The two leaders also discussed the security situation in Somalia and the region, highlighting the need to maintain peace and stability in the Horn of Africa and across the continent. They called for respect for the principles of territorial integrity, sovereignty, and non-interference.

This visit follows similar engagements by the Somali president with leaders from Uganda, Burundi and Djibouti, underlining Somalia’s commitment to a smooth transition of security responsibilities.