(1).png)
Kenya and Somalia have officially endorsed the establishment of the new African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia -AUSSOM- set to begin in January next year.
The mission will replace the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), continuing efforts to stabilise the region and build on previous achievements.
In a joint statement issued at State House, Nairobi, President William Ruto and his Somalia counterpart Hassan Sheikh Mohamud stressed the importance of a seamless transition from ATMIS to AUSSOM.
The leaders emphasised the need for adequate funding for the new mission, encouraging the exploration of all financial options to support its operations.
President Sheikh praised Kenya’s contribution to stabilising Somalia, particularly highlighting the Kenya Defence Forces' (KDF) role in combating terrorism alongside Somali security forces and other ATMIS troops.
He acknowledged President Ruto’s dedication to supporting Somalia's state-building efforts and restoring peace in the Horn of Africa.
"We value the significant contribution of the KDF in the fight against terrorism and their collaboration with our Somali forces," President Sheikh said.
Both leaders also underscored the need to support the Somali Security Development Plan, calling on the international community to assist in developing the capacity of Somali Security Forces (SSF) as the transition to AUSSOM progresses.
President Ruto assured Somalia of Kenya's ongoing commitment to providing assistance and maintaining solidarity with the country.
The two Heads of State reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations through the Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC), highlighting the outcomes of the 3rd JCC meeting held in Nairobi in May 2024.
The 4th session is scheduled to take place in Somalia next year.
Additionally, the leaders discussed opportunities to boost trade and investment between the two nations.
They directed their respective Trade ministers to work on eliminating trade barriers and encouraged the private sector to capitalise on pro-business policies introduced by both governments.
President Ruto also congratulated President Sheikh on Somalia’s recent election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for 2025-2026.
He expressed confidence in Somalia’s ability to influence international peace and security discussions during a period of global governance reforms.
Both presidents reiterated their commitment to maintaining stability in the Horn of Africa and called for respect for territorial integrity, sovereignty and non-interference principles.