Happy New Year, Somalia! A Glimpse of the Future
In the vibrant city of Mogadishu, on behalf of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), it is my sincerest pleasure to extend heartfelt New Year wishes for 2025 to the remarkable people and esteemed leaders of the Federal Government of Somalia. May this year bring prosperity, peace, and growth to this resilient nation.
A Year of Significant Change
The year 2024 will undoubtedly be remembered as a turning point for Somalia, marking substantial progress in its journey towards peace and security. These achievements were made possible through the unwavering efforts of the Federal Government, under the guidance of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, in partnership with the tireless support of the African Union Mission. Together, we have stridden boldly into a brighter tomorrow.
Making History on the Global Stage
Somalia, as of January 2025, will proudly sit as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. This prestigious accomplishment reflects Somalia’s rising prominence in global affairs and presents a unique opportunity for the country to champion international peace and security in a meaningful way.
Charting the Course for Economic Growth
March 2024 ushered in a new chapter for Somalia with its induction as a full-fledged member of the East African Community (EAC), a substantial economic bloc with a reach of over 170 million people. With its enviable 3,000-kilometer coastline and an abundance of natural resources, Somalia is aptly poised to take its place as a cornerstone of regional economic dynamism.
The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), the forerunner of AUSSOM, successfully began transferring control of Forward Operating Bases to the Somali Security Forces (SSF) in accordance with the Somalia Transition Plan in 2024. This significant move signifies the SSF’s growing capacity to independently manage and safeguard their nation.
Acknowledging the Efforts Behind the Progress
We acknowledge the invaluable contributions of our international partners and the Troop and Police Contributing Countries throughout this journey. Their sacrifices in empowering the Somali Security Forces through force generation and capacity building cannot be overstated.
ATMIS, working alongside developmental allies, has spearheaded several impactful projects to benefit the communities in liberated areas. The construction of boreholes and classrooms, as well as the refurbishment of police stations and health centers, stand as testaments to our ongoing commitment to improving the lives of Somali citizens.
Stepping into a Promising Future
Launching on January 1, 2025, AUSSOM becomes operational according to the UN Security Council Resolution 2767 (2024). It builds on ATMIS’s previous success, striving for enduring peace and security in Somalia.
The African Union, through AUSSOM, pledges unwavering support for the Somali government’s stabilisation efforts and post-conflict recovery. Our actions will continue to be steered by AU Peace and Security Council directives, as well as UN Security Council resolutions, reinforcing our commitment to a robust partnership with the Somali Security Forces.
Here’s to 2025 being a year of prosperity, peace, and continued unity for this incredible nation.
Ambassador Mohamed El-Amine Souef
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
