MOGADISHU (KAAB TV) – The United Kingdom has announced an additional £7.5 million in support for the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), as preparations intensify for the handover to the African Union Stabilization Support Mission (AUSSOM) in early 2025.
ATMIS, which succeeded AMISOM, is slated to conclude its mandate on December 31, 2024.
Despite playing a key role in stabilizing Somalia by securing key areas and supporting joint operations with the Somali National Army, ATMIS has faced serious financial challenges, particularly with a reduction in funding from the European Union, its primary donor.
This has placed pressure on Western nations, including the UK, to contribute more financially.
The UK’s latest donation brings its total contribution to ATMIS and AMISOM to £77 million since 2021.
In a statement, the British Embassy underscored the importance of this contribution, citing its role in bolstering Somalia’s fight against al-Shabaab and protecting vital infrastructure.
“By funding ATMIS, we are investing not only in Somalia’s security today but also in its stability and prosperity tomorrow,” said British Ambassador Mike Nithavrianakis.
Somalia’s Defence Minister, Abdikadir Mohamed Nur, also lauded the UK’s support, calling it crucial in the ongoing joint efforts of ATMIS and Somali forces to restore sustainable security in the country.
However, tensions are mounting between African Union member states regarding the future mission.
Egypt’s expressed interest in joining AUSSOM has raised concerns among Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda due to existing regional disputes, particularly over Ethiopia’s Grand Renaissance Dam project.
These geopolitical complexities have hampered the quest for additional international funding for AUSSOM.
Despite these diplomatic efforts, Somalia continues to grapple with severe security challenges.
Al-Shabaab remains a potent force, with reports of increased collaboration between the militant group and local clans and businesses.
The government’s military offensive, launched in 2022 with clan militia support, has stalled, with some militias turning against local communities amid unpaid wages.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration is under increasing strain as military setbacks have undermined earlier gains, while political tensions escalate. Puntland and Jubbaland, two key regional states, have boycotted recent negotiations, further complicating the situation.
The collapse of these talks has intensified Somalia’s political crisis, casting doubt on the prospects for the 2026 elections and raising concerns about the country’s future stability.