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The Somali government is asking the international community to increase support for the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). The government says more funding and long-term solutions are urgently needed to help stabilize the country.
Speaking at a virtual meeting of the African Union Peace and Security Council, Somalia’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ali Mohamed Omar, called on African Union (AU) members and global partners to step up their support. He highlighted the need to organize a major fundraising conference for AUSSOM. He also suggested that a Gulf nation could host the event to encourage financial support and ensure transparency in how the funds are used.
“We are calling on all African Union member states to contribute more through the AU Peace Fund,” Minister Omar said. “When African countries take the lead, it builds trust among global partners and helps ensure the mission succeeds.”
AUSSOM is currently the largest peacekeeping operation in Africa. It was created to help Somalia transition to a more stable and secure future by gradually transferring security responsibilities from AU peacekeepers to Somali forces. AUSSOM replaced the previous mission, ATMIS, in 2025 as part of this new security plan.
However, the mission is facing serious financial challenges. Although its initial annual budget was set at $190.2 million, that amount was later reduced to $166.5 million. This reduction happened after the AU decided not to increase the payment for peacekeeping troops from $828 to $1,000 per month.
In addition, the United Nations is still looking for an extra $41.6 million to keep the mission going. Without this money, AUSSOM may struggle to maintain its operations—especially as the country continues to face threats from al-Shabaab and deals with political instability.
Minister Omar said it is crucial for the international community to support the mission financially. He believes a strong and well-funded AUSSOM will help Somalia’s national forces take control of their own security in the long run.
During the meeting, Omar also took a moment to express Somalia’s deep sorrow following the deaths of five Ugandan peacekeepers. They died in a helicopter crash in Mogadishu on July 2. He offered condolences to the families of the victims, the Ugandan government, and the entire AUSSOM team.
“Their sacrifice will not be forgotten,” he said.
The Somali government’s appeal comes at a time when the country is working hard to rebuild after decades of conflict. AUSSOM plays a key role in providing security and helping Somali forces prepare to take full responsibility for the country’s safety.
Minister Omar emphasized that without consistent and reliable funding, the progress made so far could be at risk. He said that hosting a dedicated financing conference would be an important step in ensuring the mission’s sustainability.
In conclusion, Somalia is asking both African nations and global partners to invest more in peace and security. The success of AUSSOM depends on long-term commitments and shared responsibility, and Somalia believes that with united effort, the country can move toward lasting peace and stability.