In a high-profile diplomatic engagement, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), H.E. @ymahmoudali, undertook a pivotal visit to Mogadishu, reaffirming the African Union’s (AU) unwavering commitment to Somalia’s security, stability, and sovereignty. His visit underscored the AU’s comprehensive support, spanning political, financial, and operational dimensions, particularly through the African Union Support Mission in Somalia (@aussom_), the successor to ATMIS.

During his deliberations with Somali leadership, Chairperson Mahmoud Ali commended the extraordinary resilience and valor of Somali security forces in confronting asymmetric threats while lauding the steadfast leadership of President H.E. @HassanSMohamud in steering the nation through a complex security and governance landscape. His remarks highlighted the remarkable progress achieved in fortifying state institutions, countering extremism, and advancing national development despite persistent geopolitical and security challenges.

The Chairperson underscored the imperative for sustained and predictable financial support to ensure a seamless security transition as the AU gradually scales down its military footprint in Somalia. He called upon international partners to deepen their engagement and enhance coordinated mechanisms for long-term investment in Somalia’s security sector, reinforcing indigenous capabilities to assume full national security responsibilities.

This visit comes at a critical juncture as Somalia navigates a multifaceted security environment, with the Al-Shabaab insurgency continuing to pose a formidable challenge. The Somali government, in collaboration with AU forces and international allies, has intensified counterterrorism operations to reclaim territories and dismantle militant networks. However, achieving lasting peace requires a holistic strategy that integrates security interventions with robust governance reforms, economic revitalization, and inclusive political processes.

The AU’s steadfast diplomatic and operational engagement reflects its broader strategic vision for Somalia’s sustainable state-building efforts. By facilitating a well-structured transition from AU-led security operations to full Somali sovereignty, the AU aligns its efforts with Somalia’s Vision 2060, a comprehensive framework for long-term stability and national development.

Chairperson Mahmoud Ali’s visit reaffirms the African Union’s role as a pivotal stakeholder in Somalia’s trajectory toward enduring peace and prosperity. Moving forward, the AU remains committed to fostering strategic partnerships with the Somali government, the United Nations, and global allies to mobilize the requisite resources, fortify governance institutions, and bolster regional stability.