EU to Pledge $60 Million to AU Mission in Somalia Amid Gulf Shift in Support

Tigabu Yilma (L, front), African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) Force Commander pins a medal on a Kenyan AMISOM military officer during a medal award ceremony in Mogadishu, capital of Somalia Sept. 29, 2019. (Xinhua/AMISOM)

BRUSSELS/MOGADISHU — The European Union is expected to officially allocate $60 million in January 2026 to support the African Union’s mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), according to diplomatic sources and analysts.

However, reports indicate that Kuwait, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Saudi Arabia have scaled back their enthusiasm for backing the mission, opting instead to engage directly with Somalia’s federal government and regional states rather than channeling aid through international organizations.

According to the Africa Intelligence newspaper, Gulf capitals Abu Dhabi and Doha increasingly prefer to deliver funding and aid directly to Somalia, bypassing multilateral mechanisms. Analysts say this shift forms part of a broader Gulf strategy to expand their influence and political flexibility in the Horn of Africa.

AUSSOM, which replaced the long-standing AMISOM force, continues to struggle with securing sustainable financial support despite the EU’s recent pledge. If confirmed, the EU funding would bolster efforts to maintain security and stability during Somalia’s ongoing political transition.

So far, no official statements have been issued by Gulf countries or the AUSSOM mission confirming these developments.

Reports further note that Qatar and the UAE continue to pursue direct development projects and investments in Somalia, focusing on key sectors such as ports, energy, and infrastructure.

GAROWE ONLINE