Somalia Takes First-Ever Seat on African Union Peace and Security Council

Wednesday April 8, 2026

Addis Ababa (AX) — Somalia has secured a place on the African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) for the first time since the body was created in 2003, a diplomatic breakthrough that signals the country’s rising profile on the continent.

Somalia’s Ambassador to Ethiopia and the African Union, Abdullahi Warfaa, hoisted the Somali flag at the council’s headquarters on Tuesday, marking the start of Somalia’s responsibilities during the 2026–2028 term.

Government officials described the moment as a landmark success that bolsters Somalia’s standing abroad and highlights its expanding contribution to Africa’s peace and security architecture.

“This milestone enhances Somalia’s voice in shaping Africa’s peace and security agenda and reflects the confidence of African nations in Somalia’s progress and leadership,” the ambassador said.

Somalia won election to the 15-member council in February 2026. Over the course of its term, the country has said it will focus on strengthening conflict prevention, advancing peacebuilding and reconciliation, improving counterterrorism cooperation, and supporting post-conflict recovery efforts across Africa.

The African Union Peace and Security Council is the AU’s main decision-making organ for preventing, managing and resolving conflicts. Its mandate includes overseeing peace support operations, authorizing sanctions when needed, and coordinating collective responses to crises across the continent.

Somalia’s entry comes as the government steps up efforts to stabilize its own security situation while also contributing to regional peace initiatives in the Horn of Africa.

Officials and observers see the appointment as a sign of international confidence in Somalia’s institutional rebuilding and its more active engagement in regional and global affairs after years of conflict and instability.