Source: Africa Publicity
The African Union has renewed calls for predictable and sustainable financing for the AU Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), as regional leaders gathered in Uganda to discuss the future of peace and security efforts in the Horn of Africa.
Speaking at the second Extraordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government of Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) to AUSSOM, African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf stressed the need for stronger collaboration with international partners to ensure adequate and reliable funding for the mission.
The summit brought together leaders of troop-contributing countries, senior AU officials and representatives of the Federal Government of Somalia to review progress and reinforce support for Somalia’s stabilisation and state-building agenda.
Youssouf reaffirmed the African Union’s commitment to supporting Somalia’s pursuit of lasting peace, security and development, emphasizing the importance of Somali leadership and ownership of the country’s peace and stabilisation efforts.
He also paid tribute to the countries contributing troops to AUSSOM and praised the military, police and civilian personnel serving under the mission, noting that their dedication continues to play a vital role in supporting stability and state-building in Somalia.
The AU Commission Chairperson expressed appreciation to the Government and people of Uganda for hosting the summit and commended President Yoweri Museveni for convening the meeting. He further praised Uganda’s longstanding contribution to peace, security and stability in Somalia and the wider region.
On the sidelines of the summit, Youssouf held bilateral talks with President Museveni, during which they exchanged views on developments in the Great Lakes region and South Sudan. The discussions focused on advancing inclusive dialogue and strengthening regional efforts aimed at achieving sustainable peace, security and stability in both areas.
The Kampala summit comes as the African Union and its partners seek to bolster support for Somalia’s security transition and ensure the long-term effectiveness of AUSSOM amid evolving security challenges in the country.
