Egypt moving forward with deploying forces to AU mission in Somalia: El-Sisi to Mohamud

CAIRO – 8 February 2026: President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi discussed Egypt’s anticipated participation in the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) in a meeting with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in Cairo on Sunday.

In a press conference following the talks, El-Sisi said he confirmed to his Somali counterpart that Egypt is proceeding with the deployment of its forces as part of the mission.

He underscored Egypt’s dedication to the continent and the Egyptian efforts to promote peace and stability across Somalia.

Regional Security

The two leaders also reviewed current regional developments and agreed to intensify joint coordination to address challenges facing the Horn of Africa, with the aim of strengthening security, stability, and prosperity in the region.

 

El-Sisi stressed that the responsibility for securing the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden “rests exclusively with the littoral states” and highlighted the special role of Egypt and Somalia, given their strategic positions at the northern and southern entrances to the Red Sea.

El-Sisi reaffirmed Egypt’s enduring partnership with Somalia, promising continued support for peace and stability in both the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea.