Donors and troop-contributing countries (TCCs) have raised concerns over Egypt’s involvement in the upcoming African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) and the ongoing financial strain. The mission, which will replace the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) in 2025, faces uncertainties as Egypt seeks a larger role, sparking unease among established contributors.
Uganda, a key contributor to Somalia’s peacekeeping efforts, questioned Egypt’s sudden involvement. “The TCCs are asking, why does Egypt want to join now? Where have they been all this time? They should have come much earlier,” said Uganda’s State Minister for International Affairs, Henry Okello Oryem. Despite this, Uganda has indicated that while the mission’s structure remains unchanged, operational adjustments may be necessary.
Egypt’s proposed contribution of 5,000 troops, nearly half of AUSSOM’s total force, has raised concerns from countries like #Ethiopia. Ethiopia, which has been a key troop contributor since 2014, views Egypt’s increased influence as a potential disruptor in the regional security dynamics, particularly amid existing tensions between the two nations.
The European Union, the main donor to AU missions in Somalia, stated, “The #EU has no preference for any country to be part of the new mission, and we are not part of the decision-making process. However, we expect any country participating in the mission to focus 100 percent on the fight against al-Shabaab.” Regarding financial contributions, the EU added, “The EU has always aimed for better burden-sharing among international partners.”
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