Thursday August 8, 2024
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia's National Security Advisor, Hussein Sheikh-Ali Moalim, announced that the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) will conclude in December 2024, making way for the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
AUSSOM is designed to strengthen Somali security forces to maintain peace and security independently. This transition, approved by the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council (PSC) on August 1, aims to provide short-term support to the Somali National Army. The plan for AUSSOM will be submitted to the United Nations Security Council on August 12 for approval.
"AUSSOM was requested by the Somali government following the planned withdrawal of ATMIS," Mahmoud said. "The new operation will involve a limited number of troops and focus on building the capacity of our national forces."
Egypt and Djibouti have pledged significant support for AUSSOM, expressing their commitment during the AU meeting where the mission was approved. The AU has encouraged other member states to contribute as well. Mahmoud emphasized that Somalia will manage countries' participation in AUSSOM through separate agreements.
The announcement comes amid ongoing threats from the Al-Shabaab militant group. Recent attacks, such as the one on Lido Beach that killed 40 civilians and injured 247, underscore persistent security challenges. The PSC acknowledged progress in Somalia's security and political landscape but condemned these ongoing threats.
The PSC highlighted the importance of a seamless transition from ATMIS to AUSSOM, ensuring continuous support for Somalia. The new mission will prioritize training and equipping Somali security forces while ensuring the safety of AU personnel in Somalia.
The AU has been involved in Somalia since 2007, with troops from Kenya, Uganda, and Burundi supporting the government. AUSSOM aims to build on the gains made by ATMIS and further strengthen Somali forces. The AU Commission has been tasked with compiling best practices from previous missions to apply to AUSSOM, aiming to address ongoing security challenges effectively.
The transition from ATMIS to AUSSOM marks a crucial phase in Somalia's pursuit of lasting peace. With international support and a focus on enhancing Somali security forces, AUSSOM aims to provide essential support during this pivotal period.