MOGADISHU, Somalia — July 10, 2026 — African Union Commission Chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has called for urgent action to operationalize the AU Peace Fund and increase financial contributions from member states as the African Union mission in Somalia faces new funding challenges following a planned U.S. decision to end logistical support.

The call comes amid growing discussions among the African Union, United Nations, and international partners over how to secure long-term and predictable financing for Somalia’s security operations as Somali forces gradually assume greater responsibility in the fight against Al-Shabaab.

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Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said the African Union Peace Fund must become fully operational to help provide sustainable financing for peace and security missions across the continent, including support for operations in Somalia.

According to the African Union leadership, stronger financial commitments from member states are needed to reduce dependence on external donors and strengthen the bloc’s ability to respond to security crises.

The funding concerns follow the announcement that the United States plans to end its logistical support for the African Union mission in Somalia by the end of 2026. The U.S. has been one of the major international supporters of Somalia’s security efforts, including assistance related to logistics and operational support.

The possible reduction in external assistance has raised questions among international partners about how Somalia’s security transition will be financed while Somali forces continue operations against Al-Shabaab.

Somalia Security Transition and International Support

The African Union mission in Somalia has played a central role in supporting Somali security forces since its establishment in 2007. The mission has helped combat Al-Shabaab, protect key government institutions, and support the gradual transfer of security responsibilities to Somali forces.

The transition process has faced several challenges, including funding shortages, operational difficulties, and the continued ability of Al-Shabaab to conduct attacks in different parts of the country.

The United Nations, African Union, and Somalia’s international partners have held repeated discussions on creating a more reliable funding model for future security operations.

The AU Peace Fund was established to provide African-led financing for peace and security initiatives, but efforts to fully activate and finance the fund have progressed gradually.

Regional and International Response

African Union officials have repeatedly called on member states to increase their contributions to strengthen the organization’s ability to manage security operations without relying heavily on external funding.

The funding issue has become a major focus as Somalia moves toward greater responsibility for national security. Somali authorities have said strengthening national forces remains a priority, while international partners continue to provide support during the transition period.

The Somali government has not yet announced a detailed response to the latest funding concerns, but officials have previously emphasized the importance of maintaining international support while expanding the capacity of Somali security institutions.

Background to Somalia’s Security Mission

The African Union mission in Somalia, currently supporting the Somali government against Al-Shabaab, has undergone several changes over the years as international partners adjust their approach to Somalia’s security needs.

Al-Shabaab continues to carry out attacks targeting government officials, security forces, and civilians despite years of military operations against the group.

The Somali government, with support from regional and international partners, has been working to strengthen the Somali National Army and other security institutions as part of a broader security transition.

Previous funding challenges have affected international peace operations in Africa, leading to repeated calls for stronger African financial mechanisms.

The African Union is expected to continue discussions with member states and international partners on securing financial support for Somalia’s security mission.

The future of international funding arrangements will likely remain a key issue in Somalia’s security transition, particularly as Somali forces prepare to take on expanded responsibilities.

Analysts say maintaining predictable financing will be important to prevent gaps in security operations and ensure continued efforts against Al-Shabaab.

The funding debate highlights a broader challenge facing African peace operations: balancing the goal of African-led security responses with the need for reliable financial support.

For Somalia, any reduction in international assistance could affect operational planning, logistics, and the ability of security forces to sustain campaigns against Al-Shabaab.

The African Union’s push to activate the Peace Fund reflects efforts to create a more independent financing system for continental security missions.