Since 2007, the African Union (AU) mission in Somalia has played a crucial role in stabilizing the country and combating militant threats, primarily from the al-Shabaab insurgency. The deployment of African troops under the AU umbrella demonstrated that African nations can address their own security challenges effectively, serving as a model for peace operations on the continent. However, as a new phase begins with the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), the question of sustainable funding remains a pressing issue.
The recent transition from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to AUSSOM has not been without challenges. As reported by The EastAfrican, the mission faces significant hurdles, including discontent among troop-contributing countries such as Burundi, which has voiced concerns over troop allocations and hinted at withdrawal if adjustments are not made (The EastAfrican). Additionally, geopolitical complexities, such as Somalia’s preference for Egyptian military support over Ethiopian forces, further complicate matters.
Despite these obstacles, the AU’s work in Somalia stands as proof that Africa is capable of handling its security challenges. This success underscores the need to expand similar efforts to other conflict-ridden regions, particularly Sudan, where the United Nations and humanitarian agencies have described the current crisis as the worst human suffering in Africa. The AU’s ability to take ownership of peacekeeping in Somalia should serve as an inspiration for tackling the Sudanese crisis through a similar framework.
The Case for African-Led Funding
While the AU has made commendable strides in Somalia, the continued reliance on external donors, primarily the European Union, raises concerns about long-term sustainability. The EU’s commitment to funding AU missions has waned in the face of geopolitical challenges, including the war in Ukraine and energy security concerns. According to analysts, the EU has been “dragging its feet” when it comes to financial support for peacekeeping in Somalia, diverting attention to issues closer to its borders (The EastAfrican).
It is time for African nations to take the lead in financing their own peace operations, with the support of the continent’s growing business sector. Countries like Kenya, South Africa, and Nigeria have robust economies that can contribute to peace initiatives, and African businesses should view investment in stability as a long-term gain. A self-reliant funding model would not only reduce dependency but also strengthen Africa’s credibility in handling its internal conflicts.
Somalia: A Testing Ground for Self-Funding
Somalia, now relatively more peaceful compared to previous years, offers an ideal environment to pilot AU’s self-funding peacekeeping initiatives. With a reduced threat from insurgents and a functioning government, the operational costs are likely to be lower than in previous years. Launching a self-financed peacekeeping model in Somalia would serve as a learning experience for the AU before expanding the approach to more challenging environments like Sudan.
The Road Ahead for African Peace Operations
The future of peacekeeping in Africa hinges on the continent’s ability to develop independent funding mechanisms and long-term sustainability plans. As the AU takes on greater responsibilities in conflict management, it must ensure that it is not perpetually reliant on foreign donors. Africa has the expertise and resources necessary to conduct its own peacekeeping operations successfully. By fostering stronger partnerships with African businesses and financial institutions, the continent can secure the future of its peace and security agenda.
In conclusion, while the AU’s efforts in Somalia have been commendable, the time has come for African nations to step up and take full ownership of their peace and security operations. Somalia presents a prime opportunity to implement self-funding strategies, setting the stage for future operations across the continent, particularly in Sudan. African nations must seize this moment to redefine their approach to peacekeeping—on their own terms, with their own resources, and for their own future.
Mohamed Mohamoud Adde is an academic and political analyst specialising in offering expert analysis, insight, and recommendations on political developments.