Mission Critical: Considerations for AUSSOM in Somalia

Somalia’s security landscape remains shaped by the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) and Federal Member States (FMS), whose political discord impedes the Security Sector Reform (SSR). Al-Shabaab continues to exploit governance deficits, underscoring the necessity for an integrated approach addressing rule of law, governance, and economic challenges.

The Somali Transition Plan (STP) and the National Security Architecture (NSA) provide frameworks for Somali-led security reform but encounter implementation barriers such as resource gaps and fragmented armed forces. Moreover, the limited scope for ceasefire or peace settlement complicates mission activities, as most are confined to peace enforcement activities. Furthermore, systemic vulnerabilities, such as youth unemployment and illicit trade, exacerbate conflict, further impeding stabilization efforts.

The transition from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) reflects a strategic shift in international engagement, aiming for a more dynamic and tailored approach towards a Somalia-led security framework. This marks the third name change in 18 years of African Union (AU) efforts to bring peace to Somalia. Originally established in January 2007, the mission began as the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), which operated for 15 years until April 2022, when it was renamed ATMIS.

The shift to AUSSOM aligns with the mission’s new focus on support and stabilization, and signifies a major milestone in Somalia’s path to self-sufficiency in security matters, with the Somali National Army (SNA) poised to take over the primary responsibility for safeguarding the country thereby ensuring that Somali security forces are fully prepared to tackle security threats independently. AUSSOM became operational, beginning 1st January 2025, as per UN Security Council Resolution 2767 (2024). AUSSOM will build on achievements made by ATMIS to ensure Somalia realizes long-term peace and security by stabilizing liberated areas, enhancing Somali security force capacities, and fostering governance and state-building.

Despite these aspirations, the new mission faces significant challenges, with this policy brief offering critical areas for consideration if success is to be achieved at the conclusion of the 4-phased five year engagement. The critical areas of focus for AUSSOM include the following:

1. Political Engagement: AUSSOM should encourage the achievement of political cohesion through constitutional finalization, NSA implementation, and FGS-FMS collaboration as an essential component for sustainable progress. This should be undertaken with the understanding that, without a political solution, military responses alone cannot defeat Al-Shabaab or achieve long-term stability.
2. Operational frameworks: The effectiveness of AUSSOM depends on resolving issues related to troop contributions, command structures, and mobility versus static roles. Addressing capacity gaps within the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) is vital for balancing offensive and defensive operations. However, critical discussions should be conducted on the operational feasibility of the proposed options within the new mission.
3. Logistical Support: Effective coordination of logistical support, including synchronization between TCC doctrines and SNAF operations, is crucial. UNSOM, with support and directives from the UNSC, must align resources with AUSSOM’s strategic objectives, whether in mobile or static postures adopted by the personnel involved in the mission.
4. Financial Sustainability: Delays in funding and reliance on UN contributions for 75% of costs render the mission vulnerable. Securing commitments from international partners for the remaining 25% is necessary to ensure operational continuity.
5. Peacebuilding: The absence of a ceasefire or political settlement undermines stabilization efforts. AUSSOM must integrate support for political processes with its security and governance mandates to address the root causes of conflict.

AUSSOM’s success requires a comprehensive strategy that integrates military, political, and developmental priorities, while fostering Somali ownership and capacity. With sustained commitment and collaboration from Somali stakeholders and international partners, AUSSOM has the potential to facilitate the development of a more stable and prosperous Somalia. Further examination of these critical focus areas can assist in identifying strategies for effectively navigating challenges.