Africa: AU, EU Warn Funding Shortfalls Could Undermine Somalia Security Gains

What the report says

The African Union and European Union have warned that funding and operational problems facing the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia, or AUSSOM, could weaken security progress in the country if the mission does not receive steady and adequate support. The warning was issued in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, after the two bodies held their 17th annual consultative meeting, according to the report from Shabelle carried by AllAfrica.

The statement comes as Somalia takes on more responsibility for its own security while still relying on international backing in operations against Al-Shabaab. The AU and EU called for predictable, sustainable financing for AUSSOM and asked for a Somali-led review of the expected reduction in logistical support from the UN Support Office in Somalia, including how that might affect field operations.

The organizations praised the Somali federal government and AUSSOM personnel for progress against Al-Shabaab, and they acknowledged troop- and police-contributing countries as well as extra bilateral assistance. But they said the mission’s financing remains uncertain and could disrupt ongoing work if not resolved.

The report also noted possible funding channels, including UN Security Council Resolution 2719, the African Union Peace Fund, and partner contributions. It added that the United States has indicated its support for AUSSOM may end in December, increasing uncertainty. AUSSOM, which replaced ATMIS in January 2025, is meant to support Somali forces as they build capacity to secure the country.