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President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has congratulated Somalis both at home and in the diaspora after the country won a seat on the African Union Peace and Security Council for the 2026–2028 term. He described the achievement as a major step forward for Somalia’s diplomacy and a clear sign that the country is regaining respect and influence on the African continent.
Speaking in a national address, the president said the election shows how far Somalia has come in rebuilding its international image. For many years, the country was often associated with conflict and instability. Now, he said, Somalia is increasingly being recognized as an active and responsible partner in regional and global affairs.
“This victory demonstrates the significant progress of Somalia’s diplomacy and our country’s return to a meaningful leadership position on the African continent and internationally,” the president said.
He explained that the win did not happen overnight. Instead, it was the result of coordinated efforts by different government institutions. He gave special recognition to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, which led the campaign for the seat and worked closely with other African nations to secure their support.
According to the president, the strong backing from African Union member states reflects growing confidence in Somalia’s direction. He said the vote was a sign that other countries see the positive changes taking place inside Somalia, including efforts to rebuild state institutions, strengthen governance and improve cooperation with regional partners.
The president also pointed out that Somalia is already serving as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. With a seat on both the UN Security Council and the African Union Peace and Security Council, he said Somalia now has a stronger platform to contribute to discussions on peace and security at both continental and global levels.
He thanked the African Union member states that voted in support of Somalia’s candidacy. He described their support as a reflection of solidarity, friendship and a shared vision for a peaceful and prosperous Africa. The president said Somalia values this trust and is committed to playing a constructive role during its term.
The African Union Peace and Security Council is the main body responsible for promoting peace, security and stability across Africa. It focuses on preventing conflicts, managing crises and supporting peacebuilding efforts in member states. The 15-member council also oversees peace support missions, recommends sanctions when necessary and encourages political dialogue between countries facing tensions.
Somalia has said it plans to use its time on the council to push for stronger conflict prevention measures, promote reconciliation processes and enhance cooperation in the fight against terrorism. The country also aims to support post-conflict recovery efforts, drawing from its own experiences of rebuilding after years of civil war and insurgency.
Over the past decade, Somalia has been working to restore government institutions, improve security and strengthen its relationships with neighboring countries and international partners. While challenges remain, officials say the country’s election to key international bodies shows that progress is being recognized beyond its borders.
The president emphasized that Somalia’s new role is not just symbolic. He said it comes with real responsibility and an opportunity to shape important conversations about Africa’s future. He expressed hope that Somalia’s experience in overcoming hardship can help inform solutions to conflicts elsewhere on the continent.
For many Somalis, the election represents a moment of national pride. It signals a shift from being seen mainly as a country in need of support to one that can also offer leadership and contribute ideas. As Somalia prepares to begin its 2026–2028 term, the government says it is ready to take on that responsibility and work closely with other African nations to promote peace, stability and development.