Africa Union deputy envoy meets high-level German delegation in Mogadishu
The Deputy Special Representative of the African Union, Ambassador Mouktar Osman Karie, today hosted a high-level delegation from Germany in Mogadishu, led by Dr. Christian Buck, Director-General for Political Affairs covering Africa, Latin America, West Asia, and the Middle East. The meeting took place at the headquarters of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) and brought together senior officials from both sides to discuss ongoing cooperation, peacebuilding efforts, and strategic partnerships.
During the meeting, Ambassador Karie and the German delegation exchanged views on Somalia’s current political and security landscape. Key topics included the progress made in implementing national reforms, stabilization initiatives in conflict-affected regions, and the critical role of the Somali National Army in maintaining security. Ambassador Karie highlighted the African Union’s commitment to supporting Somalia in consolidating peace and fostering sustainable development, noting that ongoing collaboration with international partners, including Germany, remains vital.
Financial and technical support for AUSSOM operations and the Somali National Army was a central point of discussion. The German delegation expressed Germany’s readiness to continue supporting capacity-building, training, and logistical assistance for both AUSSOM and Somali security forces. Ambassador Karie emphasized that such support not only strengthens Somalia’s security institutions but also contributes to regional stability and the broader goals of peace and development in the Horn of Africa.
The meeting also explored ways to enhance cooperation in humanitarian assistance and human rights. Dr. Omar Abdulkle Calasow, Senior Legal Advisor to AUSSOM on International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights, presented updates on ongoing programs to ensure civilian protection, adherence to international law, and effective coordination with local communities. Both sides acknowledged the importance of addressing human rights concerns alongside security operations to ensure that stabilization efforts are sustainable and inclusive.
Representatives from the German side, including Ambassador Sebastian Groth, Katrin Josten, and Sascha Kienzle, stressed Germany’s commitment to Somalia’s long-term stability and expressed interest in expanding collaboration on development, governance, and security sector reform. The delegation noted that enhanced political dialogue, joint planning, and targeted support for Somalia’s institutions could help consolidate the gains achieved so far and reduce vulnerabilities to conflict.
Secretary-General Sam Kavuma, Commander of AUSSOM forces, also attended the meeting and provided an operational overview of ongoing AU missions in Somalia. He highlighted recent successes in security operations and the importance of continued international cooperation in maintaining these gains. The AU and German officials agreed to hold regular follow-up meetings and establish mechanisms for closer coordination on joint initiatives, including peacekeeping, security sector reform, and humanitarian response.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of shared commitments to peace, stability, and development in Somalia. Both sides agreed that strengthened partnerships, continuous dialogue, and practical support would be crucial in supporting the Somali government’s efforts to create a safer and more prosperous environment for its citizens.
This engagement reflects the growing collaboration between the African Union and Germany, emphasizing the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing complex security, political, and humanitarian challenges in Somalia and the wider region.
