Somalia Seeks Global Funding to Sustain AU Mission Amid Security Transition

GOOBJOOG NEWS | NEW YORK: President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has urged international partners to step up financial support for the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), warning that recent security gains risk being reversed without predictable funding.

Speaking on the sidelines of the 80th U.N. General Assembly, Mohamud chaired a high-level conference co-hosted by Somalia, the African Union, the United Nations and the United Kingdom. The meeting brought together donor governments and organizations to secure commitments for the mission, which began operations on Jan. 1, 2025.

AUSSOM is tasked with backing Somali security forces, stabilizing key areas and preparing for the gradual transfer of security responsibilities to the federal government.

AU Commission officials stressed that sustainable financing was critical for protecting civilians, enabling humanitarian aid and safeguarding the country’s political transition, including upcoming elections.

The gathering also reinforced cooperation and accountability between Somalia, the AU and donors, with participants agreeing on priorities to ensure the mission’s effectiveness.

“This is not just about budgets,” one AU representative said. “It is about Somalia’s stability, sovereignty and future.”