Mogadishu – RNN Somali TV
The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) is facing a severe financial crisis, which threatens the continuation of its operations across Somalia.
According to reliable sources, ATMIS currently has an outstanding debt of $96 million, while it requires at least $15 million per month to sustain its ongoing operations and basic activities.
The financial strain on ATMIS has deepened after the United States officially declined to provide additional funding to support the mission. Similarly, efforts to secure financial contributions through the United Nations’ assessed contributions budget have faced resistance, with some UN Security Council members opposing the inclusion of ATMIS funding within the UN’s overall budget.
This situation has raised serious concerns among ATMIS leadership and the Federal Government of Somalia, as the mission plays a critical role in stabilizing and securing areas liberated from the Al-Shabaab insurgency.
Hope for a Solution at the Doha Conference
In light of the deepening crisis, an urgent international conference is expected to be held soon in Doha, Qatar, bringing together representatives from the African Union, the United Nations, donor countries, and international partners.
It is hoped that the Doha conference will yield a solution, either by securing emergency funding for ATMIS or by developing a new strategy to replace the mission if financial resources cannot be mobilized.
Consequences of the Financial Shortfall
Should ATMIS fail to secure the needed funds, there is growing fear that the mission may be significantly downsized or even withdrawn entirely. The consequences of such a scenario could include:
• A rapid deterioration of security in areas liberated from Al-Shabaab.
• Increased pressure on Somali national security forces and regional administrations.
• Major setbacks in Somalia’s fragile state-building and stabilization efforts.
Moreover, if ATMIS leaves without a fully equipped and capable Somali National Army (SNA) and security sector, there is a real risk that extremist groups could quickly retake lost territory.
Conclusion
ATMIS has been a cornerstone of Somalia’s path to security and recovery. However, the current financial crisis places its future in serious jeopardy.
The upcoming Doha meeting represents a crucial opportunity to rescue ATMIS, but without immediate intervention and international commitment, Somalia could face a dangerous security vacuum, undermining years of progress toward peace and governance.
RNN Somali TV will continue to closely monitor developments regarding ATMIS and provide updates on the outcomes of the Doha conference.
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