Mogadishu, (SONNA) – The State Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Federal Government of Somalia, Hon. Ali Mohamed Omar, participated today in a virtual African Union Peace and Security Council (AU PSC) Ministerial Meeting focused on the situation in Somalia and the African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
In his remarks, the State Minister expressed Somalia’s heartfelt condolences following the loss of five Ugandan peacekeepers in a helicopter crash in Mogadishu on 2 July. He extended sympathy to the families of the fallen, the Government of Uganda, and the entire AUSSOM family.
Hon. Ali Mohamed Omar reaffirmed Somalia’s gratitude to the Troop and Police Contributing Countries for their long-standing support during the country’s stabilization journey. He acknowledged their sacrifices, which have contributed to the recovery of key areas, the restoration of essential services, and the rebuilding of national institutions.
The State Minister emphasized that AUSSOM represents a Somali-owned, African-led mission aligned with Somalia’s national security priorities. He highlighted its focus on protecting population centers, securing critical infrastructure, and responding swiftly to emerging threats in close coordination with Somali security forces. He noted that as of 1 July 2025, AUSSOM is authorized to deploy 11,911 personnel under the AU PSC mandate.
To support the mission’s long-term effectiveness, the State Minister called for the convening of an AUSSOM Financing Conference aimed at establishing sustainable funding mechanisms and ensuring transparent financial governance. He suggested the conference could be hosted by a willing partner from the Gulf region.
In conclusion, Hon. Ali Omar urged AU Member States to step up financial contributions through the AU Peace Fund. He stressed that greater African ownership is essential to attracting international support and ensuring the continued success of AUSSOM, which he described as the largest and most important peace support operation on the continent.
The State Minister reaffirmed Somalia’s commitment to a future of peace, stability, and self-reliance through strong partnerships rooted in shared responsibility.
