AU Chair Calls for Ongoing Support as Somalia’s Security Transition Stalls

A Call to Action for Somalia’s Future

Mogadishu (AX) — In a stirring address delivered recently, the African Union Chairperson, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, made an impassioned plea to member states and international partners to reaffirm their commitment to Somalia. With the nation teetering on the brink of a critical juncture, he cautioned that the hard-won victories against Al-Shabaab are at significant risk of reversal without continued support from the global community.

Speaking at a high-level summit of Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) in Entebbe, Uganda, Youssouf articulated the pressing challenges facing Somalia during this pivotal moment. The transition from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to the newly proposed African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) has encountered both financial and political obstacles that threaten to undermine the progress achieved thus far.

“Somalia still needs our support,” he declared, highlighting the remarkable strides made by the Federal Government of Somalia in tackling the Al-Shabaab threat, largely due to the assistance of ATMIS forces. His words resonate deeply, bringing to mind the idea that a society’s strength is measured not just by its victories, but by its resilience in the face of adversity. Isn’t it fascinating how communities can come together, overcoming strife to forge a brighter future?

Yet, as Youssouf pointed out, the road ahead is fraught with challenges. He acknowledged the hurdles posed by Resolution 2719, which outlines the future of the African Union’s involvement in Somalia. This resolution is crucial—yet it continues to face resistance and significant funding shortfalls. “The Commission of the African Union will spare no effort to mobilize financial resources,” he stated, emphasizing that the success of this African-led mission hinges on a collaborative effort. Are we doing enough to support our brothers and sisters in their time of need?

The summit in Entebbe brought together a cadre of foreign ministers and defense officials from countries that have contributed troops to Somalia over the past two decades. Each individual present carries the weight of history; they represent thousands of peacekeepers who have sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of stability and the fight against terrorism. “We honor the memory of those brave men and women who paid the ultimate price,” Youssouf affirmed, calling their sacrifice a cornerstone of Somalia’s ongoing state-building process. Their stories serve as reminders that progress seldom comes without a price.

In recognizing these sacrifices, Youssouf also took a moment to praise the ongoing initiatives of the Somali Federal Government in establishing functioning state institutions. He urged a continuing outreach to Federal Member States to foster national unity—an essential step towards a cohesive and prosperous future. The importance of unified governance cannot be overstated. History has often shown that fragmentation only serves to weaken a nation’s resolve. Can we, as a global community, learn from these lessons and offer our unwavering support?

Moreover, the chairperson commended the courage and dedication exhibited by the Somali defense and security forces. Operating under extremely challenging and often hostile conditions, these brave men and women strive to safeguard their nation’s future. Their actions are not mere duty; they stand as testament to a deep-seated commitment to their homeland. What motivates someone to risk their life for the security of others? Perhaps it is a sense of hope, a vision of a better tomorrow.

As we reflect on the discussions from the Entebbe summit, it becomes increasingly clear that the time for action is now. The partnership between African nations and the international community must deepen to ensure that Somalia does not lose sight of its progress. The resilience of the Somali people, combined with sustained international support, has the potential to rewrite the narrative of this nation—a narrative that has long been mired in conflict and struggle.

In conclusion, the journey toward peace and prosperity is a collective one. It demands unwavering commitment, innovative solutions, and a shared vision. As we stand at this crossroads, let us not falter. Instead, let us be emboldened by our shared humanity and step forward together as partners in progress.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.