New York – The United Nations Security Council has approved an extension of the international mandate supporting security and stabilisation efforts in Somalia, reaffirming continued global engagement as the country advances its security transition.
The decision authorises the continued deployment of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia, enabling it to maintain operational support to Somali national forces. The Council’s action reflects a shared assessment that, while progress has been achieved, Somalia’s security landscape still requires coordinated international assistance.
The renewed mandate allows the mission to continue supporting Somali-led operations against armed groups, securing key infrastructure and population centres, and assisting with the gradual transfer of security responsibilities to Somali institutions. Council members emphasized that the extension is designed to prevent reversals and protect gains already made on the ground.
Briefing the Security Council on the situation in Somalia, António Guterres underscored the importance of continuity and partnership:
“Somalia has taken meaningful steps forward, but sustaining these gains requires continued international support aligned with Somali ownership and leadership.” António Guterres, UN Secretary-General:
The extension also highlights the expectation that Somali authorities will continue strengthening national security forces, governance frameworks, and accountability mechanisms, with international partners playing a supportive—not substitutive—role.
Welcoming the decision, African Union leadership described the renewed mandate as essential to maintaining momentum during a critical phase of Somalia’s stabilisation process. Speaking on behalf of the African Union, Moussa Faki Mahamat noted:
Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the AU Commission:
“This renewed mandate demonstrates the international community’s confidence in Somalia’s progress and its commitment to ensuring that security gains are consolidated and sustained.”
The Security Council also reiterated the importance of predictable and adequate financing for peace support operations, warning that funding gaps could undermine operational effectiveness at a time when stability remains fragile.
As the extended mandate enters into force, attention will increasingly focus on implementation—how international support translates into tangible security improvements, civilian protection, and a steady transition toward full Somali responsibility for national security.
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