The African Union Stabilization Mission, launched in January 2025, has faced financial and logistical delays. Egypt, which signed a bilateral defense pact with Somalia in August 2024, is now expected to provide troops and military aid independently of the AU. The Egyptian contingent is due to replace Burundian forces whose mandate was extended for six months pending arrival of replacements.

The mission is seen as a key instrument for bolstering Somali federal control amid ongoing insurgent threats from Al-Shabaab and political instability in regions like Galmudug and Hiiraan.

Strategic Balancing Between Egypt And Ethiopia

Hassan Sheikh’s move underscores a broader diplomatic balancing act between Egypt and Ethiopia—regional rivals over Nile water rights and influence in the Horn of Africa. Despite tensions, Somalia has secured separate military agreements with both countries.

By leveraging their competition, Mogadishu aims to attract resources and security guarantees, while maintaining autonomy over internal affairs.

Security, Stability And Foreign Partnerships

Egypt has delivered military equipment to Somalia multiple times under the 2024 deal, and its participation in AUSSOM is expected to enhance Somalia’s defense capacity. Analysts view Egypt’s role as strategically vital, particularly as international partners scale down direct military involvement.

The Somali government continues to stress the importance of international support in stabilizing the country, where localized insurgencies and political fragmentation persist.