Excellency Representative of the Host Country,
Your Excellency Mohamoud Ali Youusouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission,
Your Excellency Commissioner Bankole, AUPSC
Excellencies, Distinguished Ministers of Foreign Affairs & Defence,
From Partners of IGAD, UN, UNSON, US, UK and EU
Ladies and Gentlemen,
All Protocols Observed,

It is both an honor and a profound responsibility to address you today at this pivotal moment for Somalia and the region. We stand together, united by a shared vision of peace, stability, and African-led solutions.

Allow me first to extend Somalia’s deepest gratitude to the Republic of Uganda for hosting this critical summit, and to all Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) represented here. For over 18 years, the African Union Mission—now transitioning into AUSSOM—has been a cornerstone in Somalia’s path towards peace. Your commitment, your sacrifices, and the bravery of your men and women in uniform have written a chapter of African solidarity that history will never forget.

We will forever honor the fallen heroes—our brothers and sisters—who paid the ultimate price so that Somalia may have a chance at lasting peace. The Somali people are eternally grateful. Your sacrifices have not been in vain; they have laid the foundation for a Somalia that is steadily reclaiming its security and sovereignty.

The Importance of AUSSOM
Excellencies,
The establishment of AUSSOM is not just a continuation of previous efforts—it is a critical evolution. AUSSOM represents a new phase of partnership, one that aligns with Somalia’s Security Development Plan and emphasizes Somali ownership while recognizing that the threat posed by Al-Shabaab is far from over.

Let me be clear: Somalia today is not a country in political turmoil. We have functioning institutions, a constitutionally mandated government, and mechanisms in place to resolve political matters through dialogue and governance. Our greatest challenge remains security—defeating terrorism and stabilizing liberated areas.

This is where AUSSOM is indispensable. The Somali National Army is growing stronger, but we are not yet at the point where we can finish this fight alone. We need your continued support—your forces, your expertise, and your solidarity—to complete the mission we began together.

Security Situation & Call for Support
In recent weeks, Al-Shabaab has intensified attacks, particularly in Middle and Lower Shabelle. These setbacks remind us that terrorism remains a persistent threat—not only to Somalia but to regional stability. We call upon all TCCs to strengthen Quick Reaction Forces and coordinate multi-sector offensives. Together, we can break the remaining strongholds of terror.

Mission Financing & Sustainability
Excellencies,
AUSSOM’s success depends not only on boots on the ground but also on sustainable, predictable financing. Without it, we risk losing the hard-won gains achieved through blood and sacrifice.
Somalia supports the full implementation of UNSC Resolution 2719 and the Hybrid Model. But we must also innovate—leveraging the AU Peace Fund, engaging new donors, and involving the private sector to ensure that AUSSOM has the resources to fulfill its mandate.

Conclusion

Let me reaffirm: Somalia is committed to standing on its own feet—but no nation overcomes terrorism alone. With your continued support through AUSSOM, we can secure a future where Somali forces take full responsibility for security, and where peace is not just a hope, but a reality.
Today, we ask you to help us finish the job. The Somali people believe in this mission. They believe in African solidarity. And they believe that, together, we will deliver lasting peace—not only for Somalia but for the entire Horn of Africa.

Thank you.