Somalia is exploring the possibility of Ethiopian troop involvement in the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), set to begin operations next month. This follows recent diplomatic progress between the two nations facilitated by Türkiye.
A Somali government official confirmed that troops from Burundi, Djibouti, Kenya, and Uganda have already been secured for AUSSOM, which will include 11,900 personnel. However, Ethiopia’s participation is under reconsideration after both countries pledged mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity during talks in Ankara.
Previously, Somalia opposed Ethiopian involvement, citing a controversial agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland. The memorandum, offering Ethiopia access to a Red Sea corridor in exchange for recognizing Somaliland’s independence, had strained relations.
Despite this, Ethiopia’s Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Nebiat Getachew emphasized its continued focus on countering Alshabab, which remains a threat in the region. Ethiopian officials highlighted the country’s contributions to stabilizing Somalia and their commitment to regional security.
Earlier, The Wall Africa Journal reported that Somali President’s National Security Advisor Hussein Moalim stated that the diplomatic hurdles previously obstructing Ethiopia’s participation had been cleared, making it possible for Ethiopia to join the peace mission.
The African Union’s Peace and Security Council recently expressed concern over Alshabab attacks and called on the United Nations to secure funding for AUSSOM, underscoring the mission’s importance in supporting Somalia’s security and development goals.