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AU names Karie deputy head of AUSSOM


Tuesday July 29, 2025


Ambassador Mouktar Osman Karie, newly appointed Deputy Head of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), is seen in front of the AU emblem. Karie brings over two decades of experience in peacebuilding and regional diplomacy across Africa. CREDIT/ AU

Mogadishu (HOL) — Ambassador Mouktar Osman Karie has officially assumed the post of Deputy Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia and Deputy Head of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), as the country transitions toward Somali-led security and governance.

AUSSOM, which succeeded AMISOM and ATMIS, now plays a central role in supporting stabilization, rebuilding national institutions, and coordinating international assistance.

Upon arrival in Mogadishu this week, Karie was welcomed by top Somali officials, including Deputy Foreign Minister Ishaq Mahmoud Mursal, State Minister for Defence Omar Ali Abdi, and State Minister for Internal Security Mohamed Ali Hagaa. Senior AUSSOM representatives were also present.

“Ambassador Karie’s wealth of experience enhances the African Union’s capacity to advance peace, security, and institution-building efforts in Somalia,” an AU spokesperson said. “His leadership will be crucial in reinforcing Somali ownership of stabilization while coordinating multilateral support for lasting peace.”

With over two decades of experience in African diplomacy, Karie most recently served as the AU Commission’s Regional Desk Coordinator for West Africa, where he oversaw political transitions and engaged with regional blocs on security and governance. He helped guide AU responses to crises in Mali, Guinea, and Burkina Faso, emphasizing consensus-building and preventive diplomacy.

Karie also held senior roles in the AU’s Peace and Security Department, contributing to key regional frameworks such as the Djibouti and Nouakchott Processes. These initiatives promote cross-border counterterrorism cooperation and intelligence-sharing across the Sahel and Horn of Africa.

In addition, he supported the operationalization of the East Africa Fusion and Liaison Unit (EAFLU), a regional hub for early warning and joint security coordination.

Fluent in English, French, and Arabic, Karie is well-positioned to engage with Somali institutions, neighbouring states, and international partners.

His appointment follows an accelerated drawdown of foreign troops and growing responsibility for Somali national forces. As the AU advances its post-ATMIS transition strategy, Karie is expected to play a central role in aligning AUSSOM’s work with Somalia’s development goals, including constitutional reform, elections, and decentralization.



 





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