Somalia and the African Union have finalized arrangements for the AU Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), deploying approximately 11,900 personnel. Disagreements regarding troop numbers from Ethiopia and Burundi were resolved, with particular allocations established. The mission faces ongoing challenges, including funding issues and the withdrawal of Burundian troops, amid persistent threats from terrorist groups. Recent diplomatic breakthroughs have led to the involvement of Ethiopian forces in the mission, securing a unified front against security threats.
The federal government of Somalia and the African Union (AU) have reached an agreement regarding the number of troop-contributing countries for an upcoming AU mission, following extended negotiations with Ethiopia and Burundi concerning troop allocations. An AU official, speaking on condition of anonymity, indicated that the departure of Burundian forces, present in Somalia since 2007, came after disagreements over troop numbers between the two nations.
The African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) is projected to deploy approximately 11,900 personnel, including military, police, and civilian staff. The allocation of troops consists of 4,500 soldiers from Uganda, 2,500 from Ethiopia, 1,520 from Djibouti, 1,410 from Kenya, and 1,091 from Egypt. Ongoing discussions also concern the status of Burundian soldiers in Somalia.
A second AU diplomat noted that Burundi’s withdrawal could bear significant political and financial implications for the AU, further stressing the unresolved funding challenges facing AUSSOM. The diplomat acknowledged Burundi’s considerable sacrifices and the importance of addressing their concerns. Additional police personnel from Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Egypt will bolster security efforts in regions including Mogadishu, Jowhar, and Baidoa.
The protracted negotiations regarding troop contribution were complicated by diplomatic tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia stemming from a contentious sea access agreement signed by Ethiopia and Somaliland on January 1, 2024. Somalia labeled the agreement as a breach of its sovereignty, which elevated tensions until a resolution was negotiated in Ankara on December 11, with Turkey mediating the discussions.
Following a recent agreement, Ethiopia secured the inclusion of its troops in the AU mission in Somalia. This development followed a visit from an Ethiopian military delegation, which conferred with Somali officials on issues related to counterterrorism and regional stability. Details of this engagement were confirmed by state media from both Somalia and Ethiopia.
The communique from Somalia’s National News Agency emphasized the critical role of the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) in AU peacekeeping activities, with plans for ENDF to resume operations in several previously held Somali regions, including Gedo, Bay, Bakool, and Hiran. Troops from Egypt will also join the mission, marking the first new contributions.
Additionally, Ethiopia maintains a separate troop presence in Somalia, as established through a bilateral agreement. The recent accord facilitates the further integration of these forces into AUSSOM, as they aim to finalize a Status of Force Agreement for the bilateral operations in Somalia.
The initial AU forces from Uganda were deployed to Somalia in March 2007 to combat the rising threat of the al-Shabab terrorist group, which continues to challenge the internationally recognized government. On the recent Tuesday, al-Shabab initiated multiple assaults in central Somalia, targeting smaller towns before being repelled by government troops. Meanwhile, security operations against Islamic State militants are ongoing in the Puntland region, with local officials expressing confidence in their advancing efforts.
In conclusion, the agreement between Somalia and the African Union regarding troop contributions reflects a significant step towards stabilizing the region. Despite ongoing tensions and funding concerns, the finalized troop allocations aim to enhance the effectiveness of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia. The involvement of multiple countries demonstrates a commitment to rebuilding stability and addressing security threats, particularly from groups like al-Shabab and ISIS. Through collaboration and negotiation, Somalia and the AU strive to create a more secure environment amid diplomatic challenges and security threats.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
