Somalia is set to present a comprehensive security transition plan at a regional summit in Kampala, Uganda, this week. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud will report on the progress and challenges in transferring full national security responsibilities from the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) to Somali institutions.
The summit will convene heads of state, defence ministers, military commanders, African Union officials, United Nations representatives, and regional partners. Discussions will focus on ensuring a smooth transition that avoids security gaps exploitable by Al-Shabaab militants.
Key Focus Areas
- Assessment of Somalia’s current security environment and progress of Somali National Armed Forces.
- Review of recent military operations against Al-Shabaab and security performance in recovered territories.
- Evaluation of financial, logistical, and technical support needed to complete the transition.
- Strategies to maintain international support during and after the transition period.
- Addressing AUSSOM’s funding constraints affecting operational capacity.
Earlier consultations in Mogadishu and Addis Ababa laid groundwork by reviewing Somali security institutions’ readiness and shaping recommendations for the Kampala summit. The African Union emphasizes a conditions-based approach to transition, with AUSSOM moving gradually from frontline operations to a supporting role.
Somalia continues coordinated operations with local and international partners to reduce Al-Shabaab influence and strengthen government presence in liberated areas. The Kampala meeting aims to solidify regional and international commitments to sustain military efforts and build robust Somali security institutions for long-term stability.
