Somalia’s President Engages with the New African Union Chairperson in Mogadishu
MOGADISHU, Somalia — The air in Mogadishu held a mix of anticipation and solemnity as Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud welcomed a distinguished guest at the Villa Somalia Presidential Palace. It was Sunday, a day set apart for forging deeper alliances. The occasion? The inaugural visit of Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, the freshly minted Chairperson of the African Union Commission, since his election barely two months ago.
Youssouf’s election, during the 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union in the vibrant city of Addis Ababa, heralded a new chapter. Having ventured from Djibouti, his diplomatic prowess preceded his arrival in Somalia. But what does his visit signify in broader terms? For starters, it’s a testament to Somalia’s pivotal position in the African Union’s peace and security narrative. Moreover, it marks a renewed vigor in the bonds between the AU and Mogadishu.
His arrival was met with warm institutional graciousness. Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama, accompanied by other notable dignitaries, extended Somalia’s hospitality. The meticulous planning behind this two-day event underscores the mutual intent to solidify cooperation on varied fronts. Regional security is in the spotlight—an area demanding immediate attention—as is the pursuit of robust economic growth and ensuring the success of ongoing state-building endeavors.
While standing amidst the grandeur of Villa Somalia, Youssouf delivered a well-poised speech. He reaffirmed the AU’s unwavering commitment to supporting Somalia in its enduring battle against terrorism. “With dedication, the hurdles that Somalia encounters can indeed be surmounted,” Youssouf articulated with conviction. His words echoed a theme of solidarity—an essential foundation for the conversations held.
President Mohamud, reflecting the reciprocated solidarity, lauded the African Union’s vital contributions. The AU Transition Mission in Somalia, affectionately known as ATMIS, has been integral in propelling Somalia forward, with its mandate set to conclude towards the end of 2024. “This gathering is a testament to our collective commitment to nurture a harmonious and thriving future for Somalia and its neighbors in the Horn of Africa,” Mohamud elaborated, as per Villa Somalia’s official missive. The presidency described the dialogues as “fruitful,” exploring paths to hasten security transformations, neutralize the al-Shabab threat, and enhance economic interconnectivity.
Interestingly, the dialogue came hot on the heels of a challenging week marked by turmoil in Mogadishu. A grim reminder of the ever-present challenges, a car bomb attack had targeted President Mohamud’s entourage on March 18. While the ominous incident claimed civilian lives, the president escaped unscathed. Youssouf, in the meantime, voiced his condemnation from the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, calling the act a “desperate ploy by al-Shabab to destabilize Somali governance.”
This marks a fresh era under Youssouf’s leadership, succeeding Moussa Faki Mahamat, who held the post from 2017 to early 2025. As a seasoned diplomat hailing from Djibouti, Youssouf comes with a clear vision. His mandate revolves around fostering peace and galvanizing integration within Africa—a mission he continues to emphasize during his engagements in Mogadishu. Youssouf’s itinerary, wrapping up on Monday, promises further engagements. A briefing on the AU troop contributions from Kenya, Uganda, and Djibouti is speculated, adding layers to his already vibrant visit.
