African Union and European Union Warn that Funding Challenges for AUSSOM Could Endanger Somalia's Security

ADDIS ABABA – The African Union and the European Union have warned that the economic and operational challenges facing the African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) could jeopardize the progress made in the country's security, if sufficient and sustained funding is not secured.

This warning comes as Somalia gradually takes on additional responsibility for its security, while international support remains crucial for operations against the Al-Shabaab group.

A joint statement issued by the two organizations following their 17th annual consultative meeting held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, called for predictable, adequate, and sustainable funding for AUSSOM. They also urged for a Somali-led assessment regarding the anticipated decline in logistical support from the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), and the impact this could have on security operations.

The two organizations praised the Federal Government of Somalia and the AUSSOM forces for the progress they have made in the fight against Al-Shabaab. They also commended the countries that have contributed their troops and police to the mission, welcoming the additional security support efforts based on bilateral agreements.

However, they expressed strong concern about the economic and operational challenges of the mission, warning that if a solution is not found, it could hinder ongoing operations and undermine the security gains achieved. The African Union and the European Union have called on the international community to provide sufficient, predictable, and sustainable financial support to ensure the continuation of the African Union-led peacekeeping operations.

They indicated that funding for the mission could be strengthened through various mechanisms, including United Nations Security Council Resolution 2719, the African Union Peace Fund, and contributions from international partners. On the other hand, the United States sent a message regarding the funding of the mission to the Somali government, relayed through the Minister of Defense, Ahmed Macallin Fiqi.

The U.S. message related to the financial support that the country has been providing for the mission, which is set to expire at the end of December this year, raising concerns about the future of funding and support for the mission. The anticipated reduction in logistical support from the United Nations, and uncertainty regarding AUSSOM funding, comes at a time when Somalia is striving to build and enhance its forces, so they can gradually take over the responsibility for the country's security.

The two organizations also reaffirmed their support for the independence, territorial integrity, and political sovereignty of Somalia, expressing their commitment to continue supporting the African Union in the country. AUSSOM replaced the AMISOM operation and the transitional one ATMIS in January 2025, with the aim of supporting the Somali forces in the fight against Al-Shabaab and strengthening the government's capacity to ensure the country's security.