NEW YORK – On the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia chaired a crucial conference to address the urgent financial needs of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
The conference, co-hosted by the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS), the African Union (AU), the United Nations (UN), and the United Kingdom, brought together key international partners. Its primary goal was to secure robust financial commitments to ensure AUSSOM has the necessary resources to effectively carry out its mandate. AUSSOM, which began its operations on January 1, 2025, is a pivotal mission dedicated to supporting Somali security forces, stabilizing the country, and facilitating a gradual handover of security responsibilities to the Somali government.
Discussions at the event emphasized the critical need for predictable and sustainable funding to prevent the reversal of significant security gains in Somalia. The AU Commission Chairperson highlighted a collective plea for support, emphasizing that without adequate funding, the hard-won achievements are at risk. The conference made it clear that financing is not just a budgetary concern but is fundamental to protecting civilians, ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid, and providing security for the country’s ongoing transition and upcoming elections.
This collaborative event also served to strengthen cooperation and accountability mechanisms among the FGS, the AU, and donor partners. It provided a platform for a shared vision on key priorities and the roadmap for effective mission delivery. The meeting reflects a strong, unified commitment to helping Somalia build a safer and more stable future, defined by its sovereignty and prosperity.
