UN extends African Union stabilisation mission in Somalia by one year
Edited By: Esengo Badi
The United Nations Security Council unanimously adopted a resolution on Tuesday extending the mandate of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) by one year, until 31 December 2026.
The resolution, introduced by the United Kingdom, also provides for the termination of all operations of the UN Transitional Mission in Somalia by 31 October 2026, marking a shift in the international support framework for the country.
Speaking after the vote, the United Kingdom’s deputy permanent representative to the UN, Archibald Young, described AUSSOM as “essential” to strengthening Somalia’s stability and security. He said the resolution would allow for a more rigorous review of UN logistical support to improve the mission’s effectiveness.
Despite broad support for the mission’s role, several member states raised concerns over serious funding shortfalls. Sun Lei, China’s deputy permanent representative to the UN, urged international donors to honour their financial commitments, warning that the current funding gap is unsustainable.
The decision comes as the Somali National Army, backed by AUSSOM and international partners, has intensified operations against al-Shabaab since July. The jihadist group, affiliated with Al-Qaeda, has waged an insurgency for more than 16 years, carrying out frequent attacks on security forces, political officials and civilians, mainly in southern and central Somalia.
