Somalia and African Union Finalize Troop Contributions for New Mission

Somalia and the African Union have agreed on troop contributions for the new AUSSOM mission, finalizing troop numbers after disputes with Burundi and Ethiopia. The mission will include 11,900 personnel, with significant contributions from Uganda, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Kenya, and Egypt. Ongoing negotiations regarding Burundian forces and funding issues present challenges as the AU enhances security in Somalia.

The federal government of Somalia and the African Union have finalized troop contributions for a new mission amidst recent disputes involving Somalia and various troop-contributing nations, particularly regarding the forces from Burundi and Ethiopia. An AU official disclosed that Burundian troops, deployed since 2007, will withdraw following disagreements over troop numbers. The new African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) is set to comprise approximately 11,900 personnel, including soldiers, police, and civilian support staff.

The troop allocation includes 4,500 soldiers from Uganda, 2,500 from Ethiopia, 1,520 from Djibouti, 1,410 from Kenya, and 1,091 from Egypt. Negotiations concerning Burundian forces remain ongoing, with significant political and financial implications for the AU highlighted by an anonymous diplomat. Furthermore, funding for AUSSOM remains unresolved, with Burundi’s sacrifices emphasized as deserving of due recognition.

Several hundred police personnel from Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Egypt will be stationed in the key areas of Mogadishu, Jowhar, and Baidoa. The finalization of these troop contributions was delayed due to diplomatic tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia concerning a controversial sea access arrangement with Somaliland. However, an agreement reached in Ankara facilitated the resolution of these tensions.

Following a visit to Mogadishu by Ethiopian officials, an agreement was signed to ensure Ethiopian troop participation in the AU mission. The discussions, which focused on issues including counterterrorism and regional stability, underscored the importance of Ethiopian forces within AUSSOM. Ethiopian troops will be redeployed to regions previously held, with Egypt contributing new personnel amid ongoing bilateral collaboration.

The AU presence in Somalia began with Ugandan forces in 2007, during a period when al-Shabab was expanding its influence. The terrorist organization continues to pose a significant threat, evidenced by recent attacks in central Somalia. Concurrently, Puntland security forces are intensifying efforts against Islamic State militants, reporting substantial progress in reclaiming territories.

In summary, Somalia and the African Union have reached an agreement on troop contributions for the AUSSOM mission, with troop deployments from several nations. The arrangement, following a period of disputes, encompasses significant numbers from Uganda, Ethiopia, and other countries. Additionally, ongoing negotiations regarding Burundian forces and funding issues remain crucial as the AU prepares to address security challenges in Somalia.

Original Source: www.voanews.com