BY FAUZIYA ALI
On August 1, 2024, the African Union’s Peace and Security Council made yet another significant decision at its 1225th meeting.
In this meeting, the council established the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), marking the latest chapter in AU’s long-standing commitment to peace and stability in Somalia.
This mission follows the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), representing the continued evolution of the AU’s peacekeeping efforts in Somalia for the last 17 years.
AMISOM, initially the African Union Mission in Somalia, was established in 2007 as a peacekeeping mission authorized by The United Nations Security Council resolution 17444, with the deployment of AU peacekeepers in Somalia on February 20, 2007.
The immediate mandate was to support the transitional government in Somalia, which was at the time struggling to gain control over the capital Mogadishu following the two-decade civil war that had been raging since the early 1990s.
The mission’s initial objective and first priority was to stabilize the country, assist in the establishment of government institutions, and provide humanitarian assistance. AMISOM operated in an extremely challenging environment, combating Al-Shabaab, which was at its peak and had taken control of large parts of southern and central Somalia.
Over the years, AMISOM’s mandate was gradually expanded to include the provision of support for the implementation of a national security plan, building the capacity of Somali security forces, and creating necessary conditions for the delivery of humanitarian assistance. This mandate expansion was only after the recapture of other key towns and cities across Somalia, gradually reducing the territory out of government hands.
AMISOM has also played a crucial role in securing the electoral process in Somalia, it has greatly aided the establishment of the current federal government, spearheaded the constitution of several federal member states and helping restore a degree of stability in the country.
The mission’s long-term presence in Somalia also highlighted the challenges of peacekeeping in a complex and volatile environment. It faced and still faces numerous obstacles, including limited resources, a high level of casualties among peacekeepers, and the difficulty of securing sustained international support.
AMISOM TRANSITION
As a result, a strategic decision was made to transition to a new mission that would focus more on empowering Somali institutions. This transition reflected a shift in focus from direct military engagement to supporting the Somali government and security forces in taking full responsibility for the country’s security, outlined in the Somali Transition Plan.
The mission’s tasks included assisting in the development of Somali security institutions, providing logistical support to Somali forces, and supporting efforts to stabilize newly liberated areas.
The Somali security forces, although strengthened, continued to face significant challenges, particularly in terms of capacity, operational readiness and resources.
Recognizing these challenges, the AU with support from its international partners over the last two years acknowledged that a more robust and comprehensive approach was needed to ensure long-term stability in Somalia. This realization led to the establishment of AUSSOM.
This new mission promises a more integrated and holistic approach to peacekeeping and stabilization in Somalia. It is aimed at building on the gains made by AMISOM and ATMIS, while addressing the shortcomings identified during the just concluded transition phase.
Its key components include:
Security Stabilization,which entails supporting Somali security forces by enhancing their capabilities to maintain security and combat security threats. The mission will also play a role in protecting key infrastructure installations and government institutions.
Political Support, in whichAUSSOM will work closely with the Somali government to support political processes, including federalism, reconciliation, and the implementation of the constitutional review process to bolster governance structures and promote political stability in Somalia.
Humanitarian Assistance and Development, whereby AUSSOM will support the delivery of humanitarian aid and the implementation of development projects in newly liberated and conflict-affected areas.
Human Rights and Rule of Law through which the mission has earmarked promotion of human rights and the rule of law, working to ensure accountability for violations and supporting the establishment of a robust legal framework in Somalia.
AUSSOM’S IMPLICATIONS FOR SOMALIA AND HORN SECURITY
Before any transfer of the security responsibility, the Somali National Army’s (SNA) readiness is crucial as AU forces draw back.
In the case of a disorderly exit or if not handled properly, the withdrawal could create a security vacuum, potentially endangering key government installations, while also allowing Al-Shabaab to regain territory.
It is also imperative that any future withdrawal factors in local dynamics, such as clan militias or auxiliary forces filling the vacuum instead of government forces or how such a scenario might strain the limited Somali security force’s capabilities.
AUSSOM aims to empower Somali forces to take greater control of the security, which, if successful, could stabilize Somalia and enhance security for neighboring countries such as Kenya and Ethiopia, who have been directly affected by cross-border armed conflict. However, the mission’s success or failure could also set a precedent for future peacekeeping efforts in the region, influencing the AU’s approach to similar challenges across Africa. A well-executed AUSSOM mission could strengthen regional cooperation, while any shortcomings might exacerbate instability, leading to broader regional consequences.
DEVELOPMENT THROUGH STABILITY
In keeping with the AUSSOM’s objectives, the paving of the way for a stable and secure environment could foster development projects, and aid in rebuilding infrastructure. However, for this to happen the challenges surrounding humanitarian access and protecting civilians during this transition, especially in areas where government control is weak should of utmost priority.
CHALLENGES
AU’s previous missions in Somalia, particularly AMISOM, have faced significant criticism for issues such as insufficient and/or nonexistent coordination with Somali security forces, allegations of avoidable civilian casualties, corruption, and the unwillingness to fully dismantle Al-Shabaab’s military capabilities.
These shortcomings not only undermined the mission’s effectiveness but also eroded local trust in AU forces. As the mission transitions to AUSSOM, it is crucial to address these past misgivings by ensuring robust coordination with Somali security forces, enhancing accountability and transparency, and prioritizing the protection of civilians.
An ironclad commitment to these objectives will be essential to avoid repeating past mistakes and to ensure that AUSSOM effectively contributes to lasting peace and stability in Somalia.
FUTURE OUTLOOK AND RECOMMENDATION
The future outlook for the AU’s latest mission, AUSSOM, hinges on its ability to build on the successes and lessons of its predecessor missions; AMISOM & ATMIS while addressing persistent challenges.
AUSSOM’s success will depend on a full seamless transition of security responsibilities to Somali forces, preventing a security vacuum that could be exploited by Al-Shabaab. To achieve this, sustained international funding and support for capacity-building are crucial. The mission must also prioritize enhanced coordination with the relevant Somali stakeholders, including key government agencies and civil society, to ensure a holistic approach to security and development.
Recommendations for AUSSOM also include the need for strategic flexibility, greater community engagement, and stringent accountability measures to avoid past shortcomings. Somali stakeholders should, on their part actively participate in shaping the mission’s strategy, ensuring that it aligns with national priorities and fosters long-term stability to the troubled nation.
Fauziya Ali is the president of Women in International Security Horn of Africa. She is an expert in Governance, Gender and Human Security. She is on X @FauziyaAAli
