Dr. Alhaji Sarjoh Bah, Director of the Conflict Management Directorate at the African Union’s Political Affairs, Peace and Security Department, has once again demonstrated outstanding leadership in Somalia. His continued advocacy ensures that Sierra Leone remains actively involved in the newly established African Union Stabilization and Support in Somalia (AUSSOM), building on the progress made under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).
At the Somalia Operations Coordination Committee (SOCC) meeting, held on February 24-25, 2025, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Ministers, ambassadors, Chiefs of Defence Staff, Inspectors General of Police, and the Commissioner of Political Affairs, Peace and Security gathered to discuss the transition from AMISOM to AUSSOM. They honored fallen peacekeepers, reaffirmed the African Union’s commitment to peace, and commended Somalia’s President for his leadership in countering Al-Shabaab, a terrorist group linked to Al-Qaeda.
Key outcomes of the meeting included:
- Troop and Police Contributions: Approving continued involvement from Sierra Leone and other member states to sustain security efforts in Somalia.
- Governance and Accountability: Emphasizing strong cooperation between Somalia’s Federal Government and Federal Member States to address security risks, resource management, and political stability.
- Clear Exit Strategy: Calling for ongoing support from the UN Security Council and outlining a roadmap for transitioning responsibilities to Somali authorities.
- Operational Readiness: Discussing deployment plans in light of new geopolitical developments and Somalia’s changing partnerships, ensuring a coordinated response to emerging threats.
Dr. Bah’s leadership and diplomatic skill have helped align member states on key security and governance priorities in Somalia. His unwavering commitment to peace and stability not only reinforces Sierra Leone’s role in AUSSOM but also stands as a strong example of Pan-African cooperation.
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