Union

Understanding the Implications of the New Trade Agreement Between the U.S. and the EU Recently, a comprehensive trade deal was announced that has sparked discussions on both sides of the Atlantic. The agreement introduces a 15% tariff on a wide range of European goods imported into the United States. This marks a notable shift; it’s a significant reduction from the 30% tariffs that the Trump administration initially proposed while still exceeding the 10% that the European Union had originally requested.…

A New Chapter: AU Allocates $10 Million for Somalia Peace Initiative ADDIS ABABA — In an era marked by both hope and uncertainty, the African Union (AU) has committed an essential $10 million to a vital peace mission in Somalia. This allocation is set to bolster the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), a decision driven by the urgent need arising from heightened security challenges and fiscal constraints. So, what prompted this significant move? Over recent months, traditional allies,…

African Union Extends Burundi Troop Presence in Somalia by Six Months By Edited By Ali MusaAxadle Times International–Monitoring MOGADISHU, July 5 – In an unexpected turn of events, the African Union has decided to extend the deployment of Burundian troops in Somalia for an additional six months. Originally, plans were laid out for a complete troop withdrawal by June 30, 2025, marking the transition from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to the newly formed African Union…

Mogadishu (AX) — Strengthening International Support for AUSSOM The Somali government has once again placed a heartfelt call for robust international support to enhance the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). This appeal isn’t just about finance; it’s about fostering a sense of global responsibility toward stabilizing a nation that has faced significant challenges for decades. Sustained financial aid, along with long-term funding solutions, are not mere line items on a budget; they are…

AU Criticizes Expanded Travel Ban Recently, the African Union (AU) expressed serious concerns regarding a new executive order signed by President Donald Trump, which imposes sweeping travel restrictions. This order affects nationals from 12 countries, including Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Libya, Sudan, and Somalia—nations that have often faced challenges in the realm of immigration and security. Beyond these 12, there are additional implications for individuals from seven…

Burundian Troops Withdraw from Xawaadley Amidst Flood and Operational Challenges MOGADISHU, Somalia - In a recent announcement, the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) confirmed the strategic withdrawal of Burundian Defence Forces from Xawaadley, a pivotal town located northwest of Mogadishu. This decision comes in the wake of severe flooding that has affected the area. Interestingly, the narrative took a turn when the Al-Shabaab militants declared that they had seized the…

Uganda and Ethiopia: Cornerstones in Somalia's Stabilization Efforts MOGADISHU, Somalia - The landscape of peacekeeping in Somalia is shifting significantly. In an ambitious step towards quelling the persistent insurgency led by Al-Shabaab and ISIS militants, the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) along with the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF) have pledged a substantial number of troops to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). This commitment…

Mogadishu, also known as the heart of the Horn of Africa, has witnessed an inspiring boost in its defense capabilities. In a monumental gesture of support, the African Union has delivered a critical consignment of military equipment aimed at bolstering Somalia's security landscape. This endeavor not only aims at enhancing the country's security architecture but also underlines the unwavering commitment to stabilizing a region plagued by challenges. The shipment comprises a myriad of essential assets: robust armored…

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.…

Somalia's AUSSOM Peace Mission Deployment Reaches Completion MOGADISHU, Somalia - In the heart of the Horn of Africa, a dedicated assembly of African Union defense ministers recently gathered to address a matter of profound importance: the stabilization of Somalia. Their conversations echo through the bustling streets of Mogadishu, as they finalize the details of deploying an 11,900-strong force for the AU Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). Launched at the dawn of 2025, this peacekeeping…