Mogadishu, SONNA — The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, delivered a keynote address at the 39th African Union Summit, focusing on continental security, democratization, African unity, and the defense of Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
In his address, President Hassan Sheikh reaffirmed Somalia’s commitment to strengthening African cooperation and enhancing collective action on global platforms. He underscored the importance of coordinating Africa’s voice at the United Nations Security Council and expressed gratitude to African Union member states for their confidence in electing Somalia to serve on the AU Peace and Security Council for the 2026–2028 term.
The President highlighted Somalia’s democratic progress, citing the successful implementation of one-person, one-vote elections in the Banadir Region as a historic milestone in state-building. He noted that preparations are underway to expand the direct electoral process across the country, reinforcing Somalia’s path toward inclusive and accountable governance.
President Hassan Sheikh also addressed what he described as measures taken by Israel that interfere with the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia. He thanked African nations for their unified position and joint statement rejecting such violations and supporting Somalia’s sovereignty.
Concluding his speech, the President called on African states to deepen unity and cooperation in addressing shared challenges, emphasizing that independence remains the cornerstone of Africa’s collective strength and future development.
