The United Nations Security Council on Tuesday adopted a resolution extending authorization for the African Union-led security mission in Somalia through the end of 2026, amid persistent security threats from the Al Shabab militant group and concerns over funding shortfalls.
The African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) is mandated to support Somali national security forces in combating terrorism, stabilizing liberated areas, and strengthening state authority across the Horn of Africa country.
AUSSOM officially replaced the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) in January 2025. ATMIS itself was a reconfiguration of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), which was first deployed in 2007 to counter insurgency and support the Somali government.
Recent Military Gains
In August, Somali armed forces, backed by AUSSOM troops, recaptured the strategic town of Bariire, located approximately 100 kilometers west of Mogadishu. The town is home to a key military base and has long been contested by Al Shabab fighters.
The recapture of Bariire was described by Somali authorities as a significant operational success, disrupting militant supply routes and reinforcing government control in Lower Shabelle region.
Force Levels Maintained
Under the newly adopted resolution, the Security Council maintained AUSSOM’s authorized strength at 11,826 uniformed personnel, including 680 police officers. The mission is expected to continue supporting Somali-led security operations while gradually transferring responsibilities to national forces.
However, the Council expressed “serious concern over the ongoing chronic underfunding of AUSSOM,” warning that financial constraints could undermine operational effectiveness at a critical phase of Somalia’s stabilization process.
Uganda remains the largest troop-contributing country to the African Union mission, underscoring Kampala’s longstanding role in Somalia’s security architecture and regional counterterrorism efforts. Ugandan forces have been central to AU operations in Somalia for more than 15 years.
Security analysts say the extension reflects international recognition that Somalia’s fight against Al Shabab remains unfinished, even as Somali forces make incremental gains on the ground.
