The meeting focused on finalizing the force composition and deployment plans, marking a crucial step in transitioning from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to AUSSOM, which is scheduled to become fully operational by July 1.

One of the major outcomes of the meeting was the completion of the Statement of Unit Requirements (SUR), which outlines the specific troop and police capabilities necessary for AUSSOM to carry out its mission effectively.

This includes a range of components such as Quick Reaction Forces, Tactical Battle Groups, and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance capabilities. Additionally, aviation enablers and police units were also incorporated into the plan.

The finalized SUR aims to enhance AUSSOM’s ability to counter al-Shabab and stabilize Somalia. Senior Defense Advisor to the Somali President, Jihan Abdullahi Hassan, emphasized that AUSSOM’s planning must align with Somalia’s national security vision to ensure sustainability and incorporate lessons from past missions.

The meeting also addressed sector boundaries, military and police deployments, and strategic adjustments to improve force mobility and operational readiness as the new mission takes shape.

Representatives from the African Union Commission (AUC), Somalia, and troop-contributing countries wrapped up a four-day meeting in Mogadishu on Wednesday, finalizing key aspects of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia.