Somalia Seeks Stronger AU Backing in Security Transition After High-Level Meeting

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia has called for enhanced African Union support to accelerate its security transition, following high-level talks between Foreign Minister Abdisalaan Abdi Ali and Ambassador El Hadji Ibrahima Diene, head of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

The meeting, held at the Foreign Affairs Ministry in Mogadishu, aimed to align the African Union’s stabilization efforts with Somalia’s national security priorities, as the country prepares to assume full responsibility for its internal security in the coming phases of the AU drawdown.

Minister Abdisalaan emphasized Somalia’s progress in reclaiming territory and building national institutions, but stressed the need for continued and enhanced AU support, particularly in securing liberated areas and sustaining post-conflict stabilization.

“We are entering a critical phase. Somalia is determined to lead its own security, but strategic support from the African Union remains vital to ensure no ground is lost,” the Minister said, urging greater coordination between AUSSOM and Somali security agencies.

Ambassador Diene reaffirmed the African Union’s commitment, saying the AU would continue to support Somalia’s stabilization priorities, and expand its collaboration with both government institutions and communities.

“Our mission is to accompany Somalia as it takes full charge of its future. We are ready to support that journey at every step,” Diene said.

The meeting lay groundwork for closer AU-Somalia coordination on the security handover, peacebuilding, and preparations for national elections. It also reinforced Somalia’s central role in shaping regional security decisions on its own terms.