New AU peacekeeping mission AUSSOM begins operations in Somalia
The African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) replaces the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), marking a critical phase in transferring national security responsibilities to Somali forces.
The African Union's new peacekeeping mission in Somalia officially commenced operations on January 1, 2025, pledging to support the country's stabilisation efforts and post-conflict recovery.
The African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) replaces the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), marking a critical phase in transferring national security responsibilities to Somali forces.
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In a New Year message, Mohamed El-Amine Souef, the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia, highlighted the progress made in 2024, describing it as a pivotal year for Somalia's peace and security.
"AUSSOM has finally become operational, beginning January 1, 2025, as per UN Security Council Resolution 2767. It will build on the achievements made under ATMIS to ensure Somalia realizes long-term peace and security," Souef stated.
Substantial progress
On December 27, the UN Security Council (UNSC) approved the African Union Peace and Security Council's decision to transition from ATMIS to AUSSOM. Souef noted that ATMIS had made substantial progress in 2024 by handing over military bases to Somali Security Forces as part of the Somalia Transition Plan.
"This shows that the Somali security forces have acquired the necessary expertise to independently take over the country's security responsibilities," Souef said.
ATMIS also collaborated with development partners to initiate quick-impact projects, including constructing boreholes, classrooms, and police stations, and rehabilitating health centres in liberated areas, significantly improving local communities' lives.
Under AUSSOM, the AU envoy emphasised a continued commitment to peacebuilding efforts, guided by AU Peace and Security Council communiques and UNSC resolutions.
The UNSC has authorized AU member states to take necessary measures for 12 months to support Somalia's government in countering al-Shabaab and affiliates linked to the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (Da'esh).
In addition to security milestones, Somalia achieved a historic diplomatic victory by securing a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council starting January 2025. "This marks a momentous achievement in the country's recent history and provides an opportunity for Somalia to contribute to global peace and security," Souef noted.
The country also joined the East African Community (EAC) as a full member in March 2024, marking a significant step toward economic revitalization. With the longest coastline in Africa, stretching over 3,000 kilometres, and abundant natural resources, Somalia is strategically positioned to play a key role in the regional trading bloc, which boasts a market of over 170 million people.
"Somalia, boasting the longest coastline in Africa at over 3,000 km and rich natural resources, is strategically positioned to emerge as a key player within the economic bloc," Souef concluded.
