A new UN report details financial and operational updates on the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), highlighting persistent funding shortfalls.
The mission’s budget requires 25% to be jointly mobilized by the AU and UN as extra-budgetary resources from international partners.
AUSSOM’s original $190.2 million budget was revised to $166.5 million after the AU retained a lower troop reimbursement rate.
As a result, $41.6 million must still be raised to meet the joint funding share required to sustain mission operations in 2025.
So far, the AU has committed $10 million from its Peace Fund, while Japan and South Korea pledged an additional $4.5 million.
The combined $14.5 million leaves a remaining gap of $27 million, raising concerns about the mission’s viability amid escalating threats.
Al-Shabaab remains a significant danger in Somalia, with the group’s activities complicating peacekeeping and intensifying pressure on mission financing and support.
The Secretary-General’s 7 May report noted limited contributions and a difficult global funding climate, hampering broader mobilization efforts for AUSSOM.
Security Council members will meet Monday to evaluate sustainable funding options, including use of the UN’s resolution 2719 financing framework.
A3 plus members, EU states, Panama, South Korea, China, Russia, and Pakistan support applying 2719 to fund the AU-led mission.
The EU also emphasizes cost-sharing and diversified contributions, while China urges traditional donors to maintain robust support for African-led operations.
The United States opposes the 2719 approach in Somalia, citing financial misuse risks and incompatibility with resolution 2719’s intended scope.
On 2 May, U.S. senators introduced a bill to block AUSSOM funding through 2719 and oppose related Council decisions.
Washington instead proposes exploring alternative funding models and broader donor involvement outside traditional frameworks to support peacekeeping in Somalia.
Monday’s consultations will offer members a chance to align on financing strategies and assess recent cost-saving developments in mission planning.
Some members may push for hybrid implementation of 2719, warning of setbacks if funding uncertainty creates a security vacuum in Somalia.
Others are expected to advocate flexible alternatives, recognizing political divisions while seeking a reliable, long-term funding solution for AU operations.
With peace gains at risk, many members are calling for swift action to secure mission funding and sustain Somalia’s fragile stability.
