ENTEBBE (Uganda), April 25 (NNN-AGENCIES) — The African Union (AU) has renewed calls for collective international support to ensure a smooth and successful transition from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to the new African Union-led security arrangement, AUSSOM.
The appeal was made during a high-level gathering in Entebbe, Uganda, where key stakeholders reflected on nearly two decades of regional commitment to peace and stability in Somalia.
Addressing ministers, ambassadors, and representatives from Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs), the AU Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf underscored the vital role played by African nations in supporting Somalia’s fight against Al Shabaab and in rebuilding state institutions.
“For close to twenty years, the TCCs have stood by Somalia, making immense sacrifices,” the representative noted. “Thousands of brave sons and daughters of Africa have paid the ultimate price. We honor their memory and the legacy they’ve left behind.”
Somalia has made significant gains on the ground, reclaiming territories from Al Shabaab and strengthening its governance structures. However, the transition to AUSSOM a new security framework aimed at transferring responsibility to Somali forces faces daunting financial and logistical hurdles.
“There are still hesitations in implementing UN Resolution 2719. The African Union Commission will do its utmost to mobilize resources, but a coordinated effort from member states and partners is essential to prevent a collapse of this mission,” the AU envoy stressed.
Observers describe the shift from ATMIS to AUSSOM as a “make-or-break” moment for Somalia’s long-term security. Unlike previous military missions, AUSSOM places greater emphasis on Somali-led responsibility, requiring increased capacity within national defense forces and stronger political cohesion.
In this context, the AU urged the Federal Government of Somalia to intensify its outreach to all federal member states to foster inclusive governance and unity—a step seen as critical to sustaining the fragile gains made so far.
The summit also served as a platform to commend the work of ATMIS-AUSSOM forces and Somali Defense and Security Forces on the frontlines, as well as the political efforts by Somalia’s federal leadership.
The message from Entebbe was clear: while progress has been made, the road ahead demands unity, resolve, and continued international solidarity. As the AU and its partners look toward the future, Somalia remains a pivotal test case for African-led peace and security solutions. — NNN-AGENCIES
