The United Nations Security Council is expected to renew the mandate of the African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) before it expires at the end of December. The council will also review updates to the Al-Shabaab sanctions under Resolution 2713, including maritime restrictions, which are set to expire on 13 December.
These decisions coincide with the completion of the term of the 2713 Sanctions Committee’s expert panel, whose mandate ends on 13 January 2026. Observers note that these updates are crucial as AUSSOM faces financial challenges affecting both its operations and the United Nations Support Office for Somalia (UNSOS).
African Union officials recently issued an urgent appeal to the international community to provide reliable and continuous funding, emphasizing that without such support, salaries, supplies, and operations of AUSSOM troops could be compromised. They warned that a funding shortfall could undermine gains made against Al-Shabaab and jeopardize the security of liberated areas, posing serious risks to Somali communities.
Countries supporting AUSSOM were urged to increase contributions to ensure that the mission remains coordinated and effective, reinforcing Somalia’s long-term peace and stability.
