The United Nations Security Council has unanimously adopted Resolution 2809 (2025), extending the mandate of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) until 31 December 2026.
The council, in its resolution issued on Tuesday, authorised African Union members to continue to deploy up to 11,826 uniformed personnel, inclusive of 680 police personnel, to AUSSOM until that date.
It emphasised that additional support to AUSSOM and the Somali Security Forces is necessary to enable Somalia to bolster its fight against al-Shabaab and improve peace and security in the country and the region, and urged traditional and new donors to support by providing the necessary funding to AUSSOM.
By further terms, the UNSC decided that the United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) shall cease all operations on 31 October 2026 after completing the second phase of its transition and endorsed the implementation of the road map proposed by the Secretary-General in his 30 September report.
It urged the federal government of Somalia to ensure coordination between AUSSOM and international security partners’ operations in Somalia to maximize coherence and effectiveness.
The resolution urged African Union (AU) member states, international partners, and donors to sustain and enhance support for both AUSSOM and Somali security forces to strengthen stability and counter terrorism in the region.
It also set the conclusion of the United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) by 31 October 2026, in line with the Secretary‑General’s roadmap for transferring responsibilities to Somali institutions.
The UNSC also condemned ongoing attacks by al‑Shabaab against Somali security forces and peacekeepers and called for improved coordination among international partners and Somali authorities to enhance operational effectiveness.
Following the adoption of the resolution, AUSSOM welcomed the decision, highlighting the international community’s commitment to peace, stability, and security in Somalia.
The mission reaffirmed its dedication to fully implementing the renewed mandate for the benefit of Somalia and the broader Horn of Africa.
MG/as/APA