Somalia Calls for Stronger AU Support and Funding for Peace Mission

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia has renewed calls for increased African Union (AU) support and sustainable funding for its peacekeeping mission.

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Ali Mohamed Omar made the appeal on Thursday during a virtual ministerial meeting of the AU Peace and Security Council (PSC), which focused on the security situation in Somalia and the African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

Addressing fellow ministers, Omar expressed Somalia’s deep sorrow over the July 2 crash in Mogadishu that claimed the lives of five Ugandan peacekeepers. He extended condolences to the bereaved families, the Ugandan government, and the broader AUSSOM community.

“Their sacrifice is a solemn reminder of the price paid in pursuit of peace,” said Omar. “We honour their service and reaffirm our gratitude to all Troop and Police Contributing Countries for their critical role in Somalia’s stabilization.”

He noted that contributions from African partners have been instrumental in reclaiming territory from militants, restoring essential public services, and rebuilding core national institutions.

With AUSSOM now fully operational as of July 1 under a new mandate authorizing the deployment of 11,911 personnel, Omar described the mission as a “Somali-owned, African-led” effort that is closely aligned with Somalia’s national security agenda.

He highlighted its focus on protecting civilians, safeguarding infrastructure, and supporting Somali forces in responding to emerging threats.

To guarantee the mission’s sustainability, Omar called for the convening of a dedicated AUSSOM Financing Conference, proposing that it be hosted by a willing Gulf partner. He emphasized the importance of transparent financial governance and durable support structures to keep the mission effective in the long term.

“African solutions must be matched by African investment,” he said, urging AU member states to boost contributions to the AU Peace Fund. “Greater African ownership is key to unlocking wider international support.”

He closed by reaffirming Somalia’s commitment to building a future rooted in peace, resilience, and shared responsibility.

AUSSOM, which succeeds the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), is now the largest peace support operation on the continent.