Somalia has officially taken its seat on the African Union Peace and Security Council for the first time in its history, marking a significant step in the country’s diplomatic re-engagement on the continental stage.
The Federal Government of Somalia assumed its position on 7 April for a two-year term (2026–2028), following its election in February during a vote held at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa. At the official ceremony, Somalia’s ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the AU, Abdullahi Warfa, symbolically raised the national flag at the council’s headquarters.
Officials described the development as a sign of growing confidence among African states in Somalia’s contribution to peace and security. Hamza Adan Hadow emphasized that the appointment highlights Somalia’s increasing role in promoting regional stability and cooperation.
Established in 2004, the Peace and Security Council is a central organ of the African Union, tasked with conflict prevention, crisis management, and post-conflict reconstruction. Somalia joins a 15-member body that includes countries such as Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria, South Africa, and Morocco.
During its tenure, Somalia plans to prioritize African-led conflict resolution, counterterrorism strategies, maritime security, and stronger regional cooperation across the Horn of Africa.
This milestone reflects broader diplomatic progress. Once a founding member of the Organization of African Unity, Somalia saw its international engagement collapse during the civil war of the 1990s. Today, it is steadily rebuilding its global standing.
The country’s renewed momentum is further supported by ongoing stabilization efforts under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia, which continues to assist in combating extremist threats and strengthening state institutions.
Somalia’s PSC seat adds to a series of recent diplomatic achievements, including securing a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council, joining the East African Community, and participating in the African Peer Review Mechanism—signaling a clear trajectory toward reintegration and influence in regional affairs.
Source: TRT Africa
