The AUSSOM military component will have 12,626 troops until 31 June 2025 for the first phase of the mission and complete the drawdown of 440 troops by this date. The African Union will deploy 11,146 troops in phase 2 from 1 July 2025 to 31 December 2025. The Concept of Operations (CONOPs) envisages the transition and drawdown of the mission toward a final exit in December 2029. The drawdowns will consider Somalia’s prevailing security situation, guided by regular joint technical assessments.
- Sector One – It includes Banadir region, which covers parts of Mogadishu and Lower Shabelle region.
- Sector Two –With its headquarters in Kismayo and an operational base in Dhobley, the sector includes the Lower Juba, Lower Shabelle, Middle Juba and Gedo regions.
- Sector Three –This sector includes Bay, Bakool and Gedo regions.
- Sector Four – It covers the Hiraan and Galgaduud regions.
- Sector Five – Based in Middle Shabelle region, the sector’s main operational base is Jowhar.
AUSSOM troops have the mandate to: –
- Support the Somali security forces in degrading Al-Shabaab and affiliates linked to ISIL/Daesh, by disrupting their movement and restricting access to illicit finance;
- Support the Somali security forces through coordination and tactical assistance to combat capabilities;
- Support and assist the Somali security forces to improve their readiness to assume full security responsibilities in line with the SSDP;
- Support the Somali security forces in the provision of security for agreed key population centres, including the federal and Federal Member States capitals, key installations and critical infrastructure such as airports and seaports;
- Protect African Union and United Nations personnel, installations and assets.
In the event of domestic disputes, AUSSOM troops are required to remain politically neutral and prioritise the protection of civilians.
TCCs are encouraged to deploy uniformed female personnel to ensure women’s effective and meaningful participation in its operations and to integrate a gender perspective in the delivery of its mandate.