The Federal Republic of Somalia has marked a historic diplomatic milestone after officially assuming its seat on the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council (PSC) for the 2026–2028 term.
The election reflects the confidence and trust of fellow AU Member States in Mogadishu’s growing role in regional and continental peace initiatives.
The Somali Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation expressed gratitude to all nations that supported Mogadishu’s candidacy.
The ministry described the endorsement as a testament to strong partnerships and a shared vision for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Africa.
“Somalia reaffirms its unwavering commitment to advancing regional peace, security, stability, and constructive dialogue across the continent,” the ministry said in a statement.
The official installation ceremony was presided over by the Chairperson of the AU Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, who inaugurated the mandate of the Council’s 16th cohort.
Somalia joins newly elected members Benin, Gabon, South Africa, Lesotho and Morocco, alongside re-elected members Côte d’Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sierra Leone and Uganda.
Chairperson Youssouf congratulated the incoming members, noting that PSC membership carries “both privilege and responsibility.”
He urged Council members to strengthen preventive diplomacy, enhance conflict management, and adopt proactive crisis response measures in line with the African Peace and Security Architecture.
The Chairperson also reaffirmed the AU Commission’s full support to the Council in executing its mandate to sustain peace across the continent.
Somalia is assuming the seat for the first time, underscoring its steady return to the continental stage after decades of internal conflict.