The Somali Federal Government has reversed its previous stance by deciding to reassign Ethiopian troops to the upcoming African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSMS).
The Somali Federal Government has reversed its previous stance by deciding to reassign Ethiopian troops to the upcoming African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). This decision highlights the strengthening diplomatic ties between Somalia and Ethiopia.
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud recently praised Ethiopian forces for their contributions to Somalia’s stability during a ceremony marking the resolution of a year-long diplomatic dispute. The disagreement stemmed from Ethiopia’s January memorandum of understanding with Somaliland, proposing a lease of a naval base in exchange for recognizing Somaliland’s independence—a move Somalia opposed as a violation of its sovereignty.
Wall Africa Journal previously reported, citing Somalia’s National Security Advisor, that discussions about Ethiopia’s role in AUSSOM were ongoing. This latest development indicates that the matter is nearing resolution.
The peace agreement, facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and signed on December 11, reaffirmed Somalia and Ethiopia’s commitment to sovereignty, territorial integrity, and adherence to international law.
Set to replace the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) in January 2025, AUSSOM represents a significant restructuring of Somalia’s security strategy. As part of the transition, Egypt is preparing to deploy 10,000 troops to replace Ethiopian forces, signaling broader shifts in Somalia’s security partnerships.
