The African Union Commission has reaffirmed its firm commitment to the unity and sovereignty of Somalia, unequivocally rejecting any recognition of Somaliland as an independent state. The statement underscores the Union’s long-standing adherence to the principles of territorial integrity, continental stability, and Pan-African solidarity.
In an official communication issued from Addis Ababa, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, expressed deep concern over recent developments surrounding Somaliland. The Chairperson reiterated that the African Union’s stance remains rooted in the foundational tenets of the Constitutive Act of the African Union, particularly the respect for borders inherited at independence. This principle, affirmed in 1964 by the Organization of African Unity, continues to guide the continental body’s approach to questions of sovereignty and statehood.
The statement firmly rejected any initiative or external action that seeks to recognise Somaliland as an independent political entity, emphasising that the region remains an integral part of the Federal Republic of Somalia. It warned that any attempt to alter Somalia’s territorial configuration would not only challenge the country’s sovereignty but could also undermine the broader African commitment to the sanctity of inherited borders. The Chairperson cautioned that such moves might create a precedent with far-reaching implications for peace, stability, and regional cohesion.
Beyond the legal dimension, the Commission’s position reflects a broader Pan-African philosophy that views unity as a cornerstone of the continent’s collective progress. The reaffirmation of Somalia’s territorial integrity is thus not merely a matter of political doctrine but an expression of Africa’s enduring aspiration for self-determination, cooperation, and shared prosperity.
The African Union has consistently advocated for dialogue and inclusive governance as essential tools for addressing internal political differences. In this context, the Commission expressed its full support for the Somali authorities’ ongoing efforts to strengthen state institutions, consolidate peace, and promote national reconciliation. This approach highlights the African Union’s preference for African-led solutions, grounded in principles of mutual respect and non-interference.
Observers note that the reaffirmation comes at a time when discussions about regional autonomy, governance, and representation remain active across several parts of the continent. For the African Union, maintaining a consistent stance on sovereignty serves as both a stabilising mechanism and a reaffirmation of the values that have guided African diplomacy since independence.
The statement concluded with a renewed call for cooperation and stability, urging all actors to engage constructively within Somalia’s constitutional framework. It reaffirmed the African Union’s readiness to assist in facilitating dialogue that upholds national unity while respecting the diversity and aspirations of all Somali citizens.
