AU extends peacekeeping mission in Somalia by a year

The African Union (AU) has extended the mandate of its AMISOM mission in Somalia to May 30, 2017.

The decision made public on Wednesday means the 22,000 strong peacekeeping force that was set up to combat Islamist militant group Al-Shabab, will remain in the country for at least another 12 months.

The AU took the decision during the recent 595th meeting of its peace and security council.

The 595th meeting of #AUPSC on the situation in #Somalia and the African Union Mission in Somalia (amisomsomalia) https://t.co/le1OW1mctz

— African Union Peace (AU_PSD) May 11, 2016

The body however expressed regret at the decision by the European Union (EU) to cut back its allowance to AMISOM by 20 percent during what it says is a critical phase.

The continental body has thus called on the EU to reconsider its decision ahead of the upcoming elections in Somalia.

Ethiopia, Kenya and Uganda have also been called upon to respect their pledges to deploy air assets for AMISOM operations.

AMISOM and the Somali National Army’s consolidation and expansion operations across Somalia have been lauded although it has been observed that al-Shabab still remains a threat to peace, security and stability.

African Union