AU Plans Troop Surge for Somalia to Counter Al-Shabaab Advances

MOGADISHU, Somalia – In a recent gathering of defense and foreign ministers in Kampala, the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) is poised for a troop increase. This decision follows a collective plea from Troop Contributing Countries. Somalia’s security landscape remains precarious, with militants exerting control over extensive parts of the nation’s central and southern regions.

The Kampala meeting included delegates from Kenya, Uganda, Djibouti, and Somalia. Notably, Egypt made its debut appearance, marking its commitment by sending troops to Mogadishu for the first time. Jacob Oboth, Uganda’s Minister of Defense and Veteran Affairs, stressed the importance of addressing the escalating threat of al-Shabaab and amplifying current stabilization initiatives in Somalia.

While initial plans capped the troop count at 11,900, the ministers’ request could see this number rise significantly. They advocate for an additional 8,000 soldiers under the AUSSOM banner. Somalia’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, expressed optimism, suggesting that increased AU military presence could help reclaim territories lost to Al-Shabaab.

Reflecting on historical shifts, back in May 2019, the United Nations Security Council mandated a troop reduction, entrusting Somali forces with their country’s security. Consequently, Uganda trimmed its forces, and Burundi withdrew its contingent from Somalia.

Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the AU Commission, underscored the necessity of sustained political and financial support for their operations in Somalia. He pointed to UN Security Council Resolution 2719, which calls for predictable and sustainable funding for African-led peace operations, emphasizing that global peace is a shared responsibility.

Somalia’s fight against al-Shabaab has spanned over two decades. The militants recently captured Adan Yabaal, a key location in the Middle Shabelle region. Despite these setbacks, Somalia remains hopeful of eventually triumphing in this prolonged conflict.

Strategic Insights and Reflections

Imagine the bravery required to operate in such tumultuous environments. Troops on the ground face daily challenges, not just from armed confrontations but from the deeper complexities of local politics, economy, and culture. How can we support these soldiers, not just with guns and numbers, but with empathy and understanding?

A notable story often shared among peacekeepers is of a small village where locals, initially wary, began collaborating with the troops after witnessing genuine efforts to protect and rebuild their community. It serves as a reminder of the human aspect often overshadowed by military statistics.

As the AU considers this troop surge, one might ponder what a lasting peace in Somalia looks like. Could it be achieved solely through military might, or does it call for deeper engagement with the communities? Leaders like Jacob Oboth and Ahmed Moalim Fiqi seem to suggest a blend of might and diplomacy.

In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “The future depends on what we do in the present.” It’s a sentiment that rings true, especially for those crafting strategies to bring stability to troubled regions like Somalia.

Whether or not more troops are dispatched, the collective goal remains the same: a peaceful and prosperous Somalia, free from the grip of militants. It’s a vision worth striving for, no matter how challenging the journey may be.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International–Monitoring.