The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has raised an alarm over severe financial challenges undermining the operations of the AU Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).
Speaking at the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) Ministerial Meeting held in Kampala on Thursday, Youssouf emphasized the urgent need for increased financial support to sustain peace operations in Somalia.
He highlighted that delays in the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2719 have exacerbated the financial burden.
“For our operations to be successful, we urgently require $190 million for this year’s activities,” Youssouf stated. “When you consider the global cost of insecurity such as piracy off the Somali coast which once cost the world over $7 billion annually, the need to raise this amount becomes clear.”
The AU Commission Chairperson called on AU member states and international partners to step up their financial commitments, ensuring that AUSSOM can continue to support Somalia’s stabilization and peacebuilding efforts.
H.E. Youssouf, paid tribute to the thousands of African sons and daughters peacekeepers and citizens who have made the ultimate sacrifice in Somalia over the past two decades.
He acknowledged the significant territorial gains achieved by the Federal Government of Somalia against the Al-Shabaab terrorist group, crediting support from ATMIS and reaffirming the AU’s unwavering commitment to peace and stability in Somalia.
Despite financial constraints, Youssouf praised the courage of ATMIS personnel, Somali security forces, and international partners, and commended the Federal Government of Somalia for its political commitment to state-building. He also urged Somali authorities to enhance collaboration with all federal member states to foster national cohesion.
Among the dignitaries present was Uganda’s Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, Hon. Jacob Oboth-Oboth, who underscored the need for sustainable and predictable funding for AUSSOM.
“We call for additional resources from the AU Peace Fund to address existing gaps,” he said, while extending appreciation to partners including the EU, UK, and USA for their continued support.
As Somalia stands at a critical juncture, leaders at the ministerial meeting echoed a collective resolve to overcome funding hurdles and keep peacebuilding efforts on track.
