Kenya, Somalia call for additional funding as security transition nears

Kenya and Somalia have called for additional security funding ahead of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) transition in January.

Following a meeting where President William Ruto hosted his Somali counterpart Hassan Sheikh Mohamud at State House, Nairobi, from October 21 to 22, 2024, the two leaders also welcomed the establishment of AUSSOM.

In a joint statement, the leaders emphasised the importance of ensuring a smooth transition of security responsibilities from the outgoing African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to AUSSOM, which is set to begin operations on January 1, 2025.

They stressed the necessity for AUSSOM to be adequately financed and called on stakeholders to explore all possible funding avenues.

President Hassan Sheikh commended President Ruto for his continued support of state-building efforts within Somalia, acknowledging the significant contributions of the Kenya Defence Forces in the fight against terrorism.

“I acknowledge the significant role of the Kenya Defence Forces in the fight against terrorism alongside Somali Security Forces and other ATMIS troop-contributing countries,” he said.

The two leaders also highlighted the urgent need to implement the Somali Security Development Plan for Somali Security Forces (SSF) and urged the international community to assist in enhancing these capabilities.

“We must ensure a smooth transition to AUSSOM,” they said.

Kenya and Somalia urge additional security funding ahead of the AUSSOM transition in January. They also welcomed the creation of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia. pic.twitter.com/xyxCwU8ZC6

— The Eastleigh Voice (@Eastleighvoice) October 23, 2024

On his part, President Ruto reassured his Somali counterpart of Kenya's commitment to providing ongoing support.

The leaders noted the advancements made under the Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC), which aims to fortify the relationship between the two nations.

They reflected on the results of the 3rd JCC meeting held in Nairobi last May and announced that the 4th session is scheduled to take place in Somalia next year.

Additionally, Presidents Ruto and Hassan committed to strengthening bilateral relations in trade and investment, recognising opportunities for both countries to leverage their comparative advantages to establish a mutually beneficial trading system.

"We will resolve all barriers to trade by opening markets and facilitating the movement of goods and services," they said, directing their trade ministers to explore avenues for enhancing commerce and encouraging the private sector to take advantage of the pro-business policies adopted by both governments.

Further, President Ruto congratulated President Hassan on Somalia’s election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for 2025-2026, highlighting Somalia’s potential role in shaping international discourse on peace and security during a critical period of global governance reforms.

The leaders also discussed the regional security situation, emphasising the need to maintain peace and stability in the Horn of Africa, while advocating for respect for the principles of territorial integrity, sovereignty, and non-interference among nations.