Kenya, Somalia call for more security funding ahead of AUSSOM transition in January

President's Hussein Mohamud (left) and William Ruto (right) at State House, Nairobi. [PCS]

Kenya and Somalia have stressed the need to enhance security in Somalia to intensify the fight against terrorism.

This commitment was made following Somali President Hassan Mohamud's visit to Kenya on Monday and Tuesday this week, where he, together with President William discussed regional security issues.

The Heads of State welcomed the establishment of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) and called for increased funding.

"We emphasised the need for a smooth transition of security responsibilities from ATMIS to AUSSOM, set to begin on January 1, 2025. AUSSOM must be adequately resourced, and we stressed the importance of exploring all funding options, including UN Resolution 2719," the leaders said in a joint statement.

AUSSOM is designed to build on the achievements of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) in fighting terrorism.

The leaders urged the international community to help build capacity for a smooth transition to AUSSOM.

They also highlighted the need to support the implementation of the Somali Security Development Plan and the growth of the Somali Security Forces (SSF).

President Mohamud praised the Kenyan government for its role in restoring peace, security, and stability in the region, particularly the efforts of the Kenya Defence Forces in counterterrorism operations alongside Somali forces.

The two leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations in trade and investment by addressing barriers to market access and facilitating the movement of goods and services.

On a regional level, they underscored the importance of leveraging frameworks such as the EAC, COMESA, and IGAD to enhance economic cooperation and integration.