MOGADISHU, Somalia — After days of intensive discussions, Defence Chiefs from troop-contributing countries have finalized the transition plan from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to the newly formed African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
The transition, set to begin in January 2025, was the focus of the consultations held in Mogadishu, aiming to ensure a smooth handover to a Somalia-led security framework.
The shift to AUSSOM signifies a major milestone in Somalia’s path to self-sufficiency in security matters, with the Somali National Army (SNA) poised to take on the primary responsibility for safeguarding the country. The new mission will support capacity building, training, and strategic operations alongside the SNA, ensuring that the Somali forces are fully prepared to tackle security threats independently.
During the consultations, military leaders from Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia, Burundi, and Djibouti, among others, reviewed the phased withdrawal of ATMIS troops and discussed the integration of AUSSOM’s operational framework.
Key issues included logistical support, continued counter-terrorism efforts against groups like Al-Shabaab, and the protection of civilian populations during the transition period.
The Somali government, represented by senior military and political figures, expressed optimism about the capabilities of the SNA and the strategic partnership with AUSSOM. “This transition is not just about changing names or banners; it’s about empowering our forces to secure our nation,” said a Somali official at the conference.
The meeting also addressed the need for international support in terms of funding, training, and equipment to ensure that the transition does not compromise the security gains made over the years. The international community has been urged to continue their commitment to Somalia’s stability.
The final agreement will now move to the African Union for formal endorsement, with the expectation that AUSSOM will begin operations on schedule, heralding a new era of Somali-led security with continued international backing.
