Monday September 1, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) — A high-level military delegation from Egypt arrived in Mogadishu on Sunday ahead of the planned deployment of an Egyptian contingent to the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
The 16-member delegation, led by Maj. Gen. Islam Radwan, was received by officers from AUSSOM and the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF). The officials later held meetings with AUSSOM leadership, including the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) and Head of Mission, Amb. El Hadji Ibrahima Diene, before attending a security briefing at AUSSOM Force Headquarters.
During their stay, the Egyptian officers are expected to inspect key facilities related to the deployment and logistical arrangements for Egyptian troops both in Mogadishu and in the field.
The deployment, recently approved by the African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC), marks Egypt’s formal inclusion in AUSSOM operations in Somalia.
The move comes as Somalia continues to confront the persistent threat posed by al-Shabaab, the al-Qaeda-linked militant group entrenched in rural strongholds despite ongoing military campaigns. Somali forces, supported by regional and international partners, remain engaged in operations to weaken the group and secure government-held areas.