Pressure Mounts on AU Commission to Fund Somalia Peace Mission

KAMPALA, Uganda – In a world increasingly driven by individual national interests, the subtle art of collaboration stands as a beacon. Recently, this very spirit of cooperation was spotlighted in Uganda, where nations contributing troops to peace efforts in Somalia unequivocally voiced their expectations. The African Union Commission, together with its partners, faces mounting pressure to rally resources for the mission.

The tranquil setting of the State House in Entebbe played host to an imperative Summit of Heads of State and Government of Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) to the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). The April 25 meeting wasn’t just another item on a busy diplomatic calendar; it was a call to arms for predictable, sustainable resources. Without these, how can the mission hope to address its operational shortfalls and ensure success?

Unpredictability in funding jeopardizes mission effectiveness. To counter this, the forum urged the African Union Commission to create a robust Resource Mobilisation Strategy and Financing plan. This strategy is envisioned not just as a financial solution, but as a way to boost morale and effectiveness among those bravely serving on the ground. It raises a thought: Isn’t it time we prioritize human life as we do economic policies?

A pressing issue discussed was the need for a rapid force generation to address operational capability gaps. An additional 8,000 troops are deemed necessary to prevent a reversal of Somalia’s hard-earned peace progress. Imagine the combined strength and hope that these new troops could bring—a force not just in numbers, but in spirit.

Training is another cornerstone of the discussion. Enhanced training for the Somali National Armed Forces can fortify the integrated doctrinal approach, ensuring the strength of their security forces. But are training and doctrine enough without an embedded passion for peace?

The summit participants also reaffirmed the importance of countering extremist narratives. Al Shabaab’s propaganda poses a unique challenge—an evolving battle of ideas where the pen must prove mightier than the sword. Can narratives shift the tides, or is more needed?

Convened at the behest of Uganda’s President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the summit gathered an esteemed list of attendees. Among them were Dr. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Somalia’s President, and Prof. Kithure Kindiki, Kenya’s Deputy President. Their presence underscored the mission’s importance, further evidenced by the attendance of representatives from Djibouti, Egypt, Ethiopia, and heavyweights from the African Union, United Nations, European Union, and more.

This assembly wasn’t a mere diplomatic formality. Its purpose was profound: to review the security landscape and evaluate AUSSOM’s performance, reassess the Somali Security Forces’ preparedness, and discuss the implications of the AUSSOM Exit plan. The summit also delved into the operational status of handed-over Forward Operating Bases and outlined a future Peer Review Mechanism for comprehensive oversight and accountability. Isn’t it time we see these discussions as bridges to peace rather than bureaucratic necessities?

Such meetings offer more than strategies and reports—they’re opportunities for nations to unite against common threats. In the halls of Entebbe, behind every handshake, lies a shared hope for a stable, peaceful Somalia. But, as we strive for peace, one must ask: What more are we willing to commit to transform these hopes into reality?

The road to peace is intricate, laden with challenges and compromises. Yet, history has shown that when nations come together, change is not just possible—it’s inevitable. So, as the efforts in Somalia continue, may these alliances prove stronger than the adversities they face.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.