By Zamzam Osman

The Somali government has taken a notable diplomatic turn, signaling openness to involving Ethiopian forces in the upcoming African Union Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). This shift comes just days after Somalia confirmed troop allocations from Uganda, Burundi, Djibouti, and Kenya—nations long committed to bolstering the country’s quest for stability.

A senior Somali diplomatic source said that, in light of the Ankara Declaration—which champions deeper regional cooperation and inclusive security frameworks—Somalia is “open to exploring” how Ethiopian troops could contribute to the evolving landscape. While no final decision has been made, the public acknowledgment of a potential Ethiopian role marks a significant departure from previous hesitation, reflecting Somalia’s broader strategic outreach and willingness to engage key regional actors.

For more than a decade, Somalia has been at the forefront of an international effort to quell extremism and stabilize one of the Horn of Africa’s most turbulent areas. After years of counter-insurgency operations supported by the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), Somali security forces, with global support, have significantly weakened militant groups like Al-Shabaab.

As AMISOM transitions to AUSSOM, Somali authorities are seeking not only military reinforcements but also a more cohesive regional security architecture. Ethiopia, historically a powerful neighbor with vested interests in Somali stability, has previously contributed troops under the AU’s mandate. The new consideration for a more formal Ethiopian role in AUSSOM suggests a willingness on Somalia’s part to build on past cooperation, further integrate Ethiopian capabilities, and craft a more unified front against shared security threats.

The coming weeks will likely involve careful negotiation, as Somali officials weigh the strategic, political, and diplomatic implications of welcoming Ethiopian troops. Observers note that any final agreement could reshape regional dynamics, offering a renewed sense of partnership and possibly influencing how other nations in the Horn of Africa engage in long-term stabilization efforts.