Summit Highlights: A Call for Urgent Action in Somalia

At the recent Extraordinary Summit of Troop Contributing Countries held in Entebbe, Uganda, regional leaders convened with a pressing sense of urgency. They voiced their deep concerns regarding the chronic underfunding of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission (AUSSOM). The conversation at this significant event pivoted around the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2719, passed in December 2023, which authorizes the use of UN assessed contributions to bolster AU peace support operations.

The stakes could not be higher. AUSSOM is not just a military mission; it represents hope for sustainable peace and security in Somalia. Yet, it faces a daunting financial gap of $96 million inherited from its predecessor, the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). The mission urgently requires an additional 8,000 troops, enhanced air assets, advanced weaponry, and various forms of equipment to effectively deal with escalating threats.

Among the notable attendees was Kenyan Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who underscored the urgency of these discussions. “We have reached a critical juncture,” he stated, emphasizing that the escalating frequency of attacks by Al Shabaab poses severe risks not only to Somalia but to the broader East African region. In recent skirmishes, Al Shabaab militants clashed with Somali troops for control over key military installations, reigniting fears of instability and chaos.

The summit aimed to foster productive dialogues and strategize on achievable outcomes for long-term peace in Somalia. Addressing the gathering, Defense Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya reiterated the summit’s pivotal proposals, including troop enhancements and significant financial support. “Our discussions culminated in a strong recommendation to trigger UNSC Resolution 2719,” she asserted passionately, underscoring the necessity for a robust resource mobilization effort.

Yet, as we delve deeper into this matter, one might ponder: who bears the responsibility for this financial shortfall? Is it the leading nations, or can we point fingers at international priorities that seem to overlook African stability? These are not merely questions of policy but reflections on the values we ascribe to global peace.

President William Ruto of Kenya was represented by Deputy President Kindiki, along with critical defense personnel, showcasing a united front among troop-contributing nations. As the summit concluded, a communique was released, emphasizing that the most reliable and sustainable funding mechanism lies in the full application of UNSC Resolution 2719 for Somalia.

A significant focus was placed on increasing air surveillance assets, intelligence capabilities, and overall troop coordination. The gathering acknowledged the alarming resurgence of Al Shabaab, warning that a failure to adapt could jeopardize the hard-won achievements of previous years. Reflecting on the past, AU Commission Chairman Mahmoud Youssouf remarked, “The stability of Somalia is not just vital for the Horn of Africa but is a cornerstone for global peace.” This statement resonates deeply and compels us to recognize that our collective futures are intertwined.

Throughout the discussions, the acknowledgment of AUSSOM’s inherited funding challenges resonated repeatedly. IGAD Executive Secretary Worneh Gebeyehu sharply noted, “When only 75% of our budget is secured through UN contributions, it places our commanders in a precarious position regarding fundamental supplies.” This, he continued, directly threatens the urgent need to bolster AUSSOM’s troop strength and operational capabilities.

As GBY executives deliberated on long-term strategies, it became increasingly evident that a concerted and unified approach would not only address immediate financial shortcomings but also create platforms for sustainable peace initiatives. The idea of focused donor conferences emerged as a potential solution, echoing the wisdom of collaboration as the path toward progress.

Ultimately, the Extra-Ordinary Summit serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced in the pursuit of peace—yet it also beckons to the resilience and determination that can arise from collective action. In the coming months, as discussions advance toward tangible support, one must wonder: will the actions of today establish the foundation for a safer tomorrow? The answer lies in our ability to prioritize and invest in stability.

As regional leaders step away from the summit, the call for unity and action rings louder than ever. It’s a call that transcends borders and politics—a call for humanity to make the conscious choice to nurture peace. Will we heed this call? Only time will tell.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring