Wednesday April 8, 2026
Addis Ababa (HOL) — Somalia has officially taken up a seat on the African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) for the first time since the body’s establishment in 2003, marking a significant diplomatic milestone for the country.
Somalia’s Ambassador to Ethiopia and the African Union, Abdullahi Warfaa, formally raised the Somali flag at the council’s headquarters on Tuesday, symbolizing the country’s assumption of its new responsibilities for the 2026–2028 term.
“This milestone enhances Somalia’s voice in shaping Africa’s peace and security agenda and reflects the confidence of African nations in Somalia’s progress and leadership,” the ambassador said.
Somalia was elected to the 15-member council in February 2026. During its tenure, the country has outlined key priorities, including strengthening conflict prevention, advancing peacebuilding and reconciliation, enhancing counterterrorism cooperation, and supporting post-conflict recovery initiatives across the continent.
The African Union Peace and Security Council serves as the AU’s principal decision-making body for the prevention, management, and resolution of conflicts. It is responsible for overseeing peace support operations, imposing sanctions when necessary, and coordinating collective responses to crises throughout Africa.
Somalia’s membership comes at a time when the country is intensifying its own efforts to stabilize internal security and contribute to regional peace initiatives in the Horn of Africa.
The appointment is widely seen as recognition of Somalia’s progress in rebuilding national institutions and engaging constructively in regional and international affairs after decades of conflict and instability.
