2021

Operationalization of the African Standby Force (ASF)

• On the ASF Operationalization, the 14th Extraordinary Assembly on Silencing the Guns held on 6 December 2020 declared the ASF fully operational and directed the PSC to utilize its framework in mandating and authorizing AU PSOs.
• In this connection, the Commission had intended to submit a draft MoU between the AU and the RECs/RMs on the deployment of the ASF as well as a draft 2021 to 2025 Work plan on the Enhancement of the ASF for consideration by the 14th Meeting of the Specialized Technical Committee on Defence, Safety and Security (STCDSS), which could not hold as scheduled in December 2021 due to lack of Member States' quorum.
• The 2021 to 2025 Work plan includes elements of the ASF Roadmap adopted by the PSC in its Communique of its 1007th meeting held on 8 July 2021. As part of the implementation of this work plan, the Commission will facilitate reviews and alignment of all ASF policies with the AU Doctrine on PSO, which was adopted by the 3rd Extraordinary Meeting of the STCDSS held on 30 January 2021.
• The AU Doctrine will guide AU PSOs and inform the revision of the ASF Concept and ASF Training Directives for 2021-2023.
• The Commission and RECs/RMs also continued to enhance the African Standby Capacity (ASC) Roster system, including through a review of the Selection Guidelines Manual, updating of the roster database and development of the processes for rostering individual police officers and Formed Police Units (FPUs) to ensure that required capabilities are pledged and on standby.
• Pursuant to the decision of the 9th Ordinary Meeting of the STCDSS in 2016, the Commission has also finalized a Guideline on the processes and mechanisms to be undertaken when a REC/RM is on standby for rapid deployment into a conflict environment.
• With the achievement of Initial Operational Capability (IOC) of the Continental Logistics Base (CLB) and confirmation of pledges by 9 Member States of various strategic lift assets, the Commission is certain that once the relevant MoU's are signed between the AU and the respective Member States, rapid deployment of personnel and equipment for PSOs will be guaranteed.
• In this connection, the Commission has established the Continental Movement Coordination Centre (CMCC) to facilitate the coordination of strategic lift and movement of AU personnel and equipment for the deployment of PSOs.

2021

Operationalization of the African Standby Force (ASF)

• On the ASF Operationalization, the 14th Extraordinary Assembly on Silencing the Guns held on 6 December 2020 declared the ASF fully operational and directed the PSC to utilize its framework in mandating and authorizing AU PSOs.
• In this connection, the Commission had intended to submit a draft MoU between the AU and the RECs/RMs on the deployment of the ASF as well as a draft 2021 to 2025 Work plan on the Enhancement of the ASF for consideration by the 14th Meeting of the Specialized Technical Committee on Defence, Safety and Security (STCDSS), which could not hold as scheduled in December 2021 due to lack of Member States' quorum.
• The 2021 to 2025 Work plan includes elements of the ASF Roadmap adopted by the PSC in its Communique of its 1007th meeting held on 8 July 2021. As part of the implementation of this work plan, the Commission will facilitate reviews and alignment of all ASF policies with the AU Doctrine on PSO, which was adopted by the 3rd Extraordinary Meeting of the STCDSS held on 30 January 2021.
• The AU Doctrine will guide AU PSOs and inform the revision of the ASF Concept and ASF Training Directives for 2021-2023.
• The Commission and RECs/RMs also continued to enhance the African Standby Capacity (ASC) Roster system, including through a review of the Selection Guidelines Manual, updating of the roster database and development of the processes for rostering individual police officers and Formed Police Units (FPUs) to ensure that required capabilities are pledged and on standby.
• Pursuant to the decision of the 9th Ordinary Meeting of the STCDSS in 2016, the Commission has also finalized a Guideline on the processes and mechanisms to be undertaken when a REC/RM is on standby for rapid deployment into a conflict environment.
• With the achievement of Initial Operational Capability (IOC) of the Continental Logistics Base (CLB) and confirmation of pledges by 9 Member States of various strategic lift assets, the Commission is certain that once the relevant MoU's are signed between the AU and the respective Member States, rapid deployment of personnel and equipment for PSOs will be guaranteed.
• In this connection, the Commission has established the Continental Movement Coordination Centre (CMCC) to facilitate the coordination of strategic lift and movement of AU personnel and equipment for the deployment of PSOs.

2022

Operationalization of the African Standby Force (ASF)

• The Commission submitted the draft Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the African Union (AU) and the Regional Economic Communities/Regional Mechanism (RECs/RMs) on the ASF for consideration by the 14th meeting of the Specialized Technical Committee on Defense Safety and Security (STCDSS) held on 12 May 2022.
• As directed by the 14th meeting of the STCDSS, the Commission facilitated the Working Group meeting in October 2022 which enabled additional inputs from RECs/RMs and Member States on the ASF MoU, ahead of its submission to the 15th meeting of the STCDSS.
• In the same vein, the Commission organized the Inaugural Lessons Learned Forum on AU PSOs and the ASF in November 2022 in Abuja, Nigeria and identified lessons from PSOs conducted by the AU since 2003, to inform the reconceptualization and full utilization of the ASF.
• The PSC during its 1124th meeting held on 1 December 2022 considered the outcomes of the Forum, tasked the Military Staff Committee to review and submit for its adoption.
• As part of the operations of the Continental Logistics Base (CLB), and based on the approval of the Chairperson, the Commission donated specialized equipment of about US $8,759,666.00** to the SADC Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM) and about **USD7,122,720.73** to the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in support of ongoing efforts in the fight against terrorism.
• The support extended by the Commission is linked to the contribution of the AU to PSOs carried by sub-regional entities and are part of the AU's effort to enhance coordination with RECs/RMs to address peace and security challenges in the continent.

2022

Operationalization of the African Standby Force (ASF)

• The Commission submitted the draft Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the African Union (AU) and the Regional Economic Communities/Regional Mechanism (RECs/RMs) on the ASF for consideration by the 14th meeting of the Specialized Technical Committee on Defense Safety and Security (STCDSS) held on 12 May 2022.
• As directed by the 14th meeting of the STCDSS, the Commission facilitated the Working Group meeting in October 2022 which enabled additional inputs from RECs/RMs and Member States on the ASF MoU, ahead of its submission to the 15th meeting of the STCDSS.
• In the same vein, the Commission organized the Inaugural Lessons Learned Forum on AU PSOs and the ASF in November 2022 in Abuja, Nigeria and identified lessons from PSOs conducted by the AU since 2003, to inform the reconceptualization and full utilization of the ASF.
• The PSC during its 1124th meeting held on 1 December 2022 considered the outcomes of the Forum, tasked the Military Staff Committee to review and submit for its adoption.
• As part of the operations of the Continental Logistics Base (CLB), and based on the approval of the Chairperson, the Commission donated specialized equipment of about US $8,759,666.00** to the SADC Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM) and about **USD7,122,720.73** to the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in support of ongoing efforts in the fight against terrorism.
• The support extended by the Commission is linked to the contribution of the AU to PSOs carried by sub-regional entities and are part of the AU's effort to enhance coordination with RECs/RMs to address peace and security challenges in the continent.

2023

Peace Support Operations

• The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia:
• In the delivery of its functions, the PSOD provides day-to-day support to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), formerly the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM). Lessons from the first two drawdown phases have been essential in defining the third phase drawdown of 4,000 troops to be effected by 30 June 2024.
• It facilitated the ATMIS drawdown of 5,000 troops from Somalia in two phases and enhanced the Federal Government of Somalia’s (FGS) capabilities to progressively take ownership of the country’s security responsibilities and lead its stabilisation.
• The AU has also been actively involved in efforts with the FGS to prepare Somalia for the post-ATMIS phase, following the total withdrawal of the mission on 31 December 2024. The AU, the FGS and other partners co-hosted the Somalia Security Conference held on 12 December 2023 in New York, USA.
• The Somalia Security Conference considered specific modalities for a post-ATMIS security engagement in Somalia beginning January 2025 including the FGS’ assuming full responsibilities for security responsibilities through the establishment of capable and accountable Somali Security Forces.
• Troop and Police Contributing Countries continued their pursuit of peace, security, and stability in Somalia.
• Conduct of the AMISOM Lessons Learned Exercise:
• In response to the AU PSC's decision outlined in paragraph 32 of the PSC Communique [PSC/PR/COMM.1068(2022)] adopted at its 1068th meeting held on 8 March 2022, emphasizing the importance of preserving AMISOM's legacy, the Commission initiated a Lessons-Learned Exercise of the mission, to identify and document good practices that other AU Peace Support Operations can replicate in the implementation of their respective mandates.
• The report is expected to be submitted in early 2024.
• SADC Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM):
• In July 2023, the SADC Extra- Ordinary Summit of the Heads of State and Government of the Troika plus, extended the mandate of SAMIM for another 12 months to consolidate the gains achieved since the deployment of the mission and further enhance stabilization processes and facilitate the return of Internally Displaced Persons to their places of origin.
• On 17 August 2023 at its 43rd Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government of SADC, in Luanda, SADC endorsed a 12-month extension of SAMIM to continue its mandate towards neutralizing the terrorist threat, strengthening and maintaining peace and security, restoring law and order and in facilitating the provision of humanitarian aid to the population affected by terrorist activities particularly women and children.
• The Summit also endorsed the commencement of a phased drawdown of SAMIM. Subsequently, the SADC Secretariat, Troop and Police Contributing Countries to SAMIM undertook a field assessment in November 2023 to reflect on the mission's activities vis-à-vis the end of the mission's mandate in July 2024.
• Pursuant to the AUPSC Communique adopted at its 1062nd meeting held on 31 January 2022, the AU continues to provide logistical and financial support to SAMIM. In addition to the equipment that was donated in 2022 from the Continental Logistics Base (CLB) in Doula, Cameroon and funding through the Early Response Mechanism and European Peace Facility, SAMIM received an additional $7 million worth of equipment from the AU in 2023.
• The equipment, part of the second batch donated by the People's Republic of China to the AU, was officially handed over to SAMIM at a ceremony held in Pemba, Mozambique, in November 2023. It is noteworthy that even though SAMIM has acknowledged the invaluable role of the equipment received in the success of the mission, challenges remain regarding the lifting of all the equipment from the CLB, with some equipment still at the Base a year after the first batch was air lifted with the support of the Republic of Angola.
• The Commission has since approached strategic partners like the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) to assist with the strategic lift. Relatedly, the Commission continued engaging SAMIM to explore areas of support and collaboration further. While significant progress has been made by the mission, a number of challenges still remain with continued insecurity in some areas, and humanitarian needs owing to the terrorist activities and impact of climate change conditions.
• Support to the EAC Regional Force in Eastern DRC:
• Following the endorsement of the EAC Regional Force in the Eastern DRC by the 36th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly, the Commission was requested, inter alia, to develop modalities for support by the AU Peace Fund.
• A technical meeting between the PAPS and the EAC Secretariat was held from March 28 to 29, 2023, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
• The meeting defined the type and modalities of support for the EAC Regional Force. To this end, the AU Commission facilitated the disbursement of 1 million USD from the Crisis Reserve Facility of the AU Peace Fund to EAC-RF.
• With regard to the conflict in Eastern DRC, under the auspices of the African Union, the PSOD supported the facilitation of the meeting of Chiefs of Defense of the Quadripartite members, comprising the East African Community (EAC), the Economic Community of Central States (ECCAS), the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the concerned countries, namely the DRC and Rwanda, on coordination and harmonization of peace initiatives in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on October 4 to 5, 2023, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The meeting contributed to the enhancement of the coordination and collaboration framework among the Quadripartite members to promote peace and stability in the Eastern DRC.
• Lake Chad Basin Region and the Multinational Joint Task Force against Boko Haram (MNJTF):
• The MNJTF, with the support of the AU Commission, continues to conduct effective operations against terrorist groups within its designated Area of Operation.
• Additionally, the AU Commission has supported the Force in successfully conducting two major military operations and diminished the lethal attack capabilities of Boko Haram as well as the effects of the group's IED/VBIED attacks.
• Extensive efforts by stakeholders to implement the AU Supported Regional Strategy for Stabilization, Recovery and Resilience of Boko Haram Affected Communities in the Lake Chad Basin (RS-SRR) has yielded critical inputs supporting the return of IDPs to their ancestral homes.
• The PSOD accompanied the AU-authorized MNJTF mandate and endorsed its strategic CONOPs as per PSC Decisions 484 and 489 with EU funding, the AU provided additional support, aligned with the MNJTF support requirements.
• Within the framework of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and Support Implementation Agreement (SIA) signed between the AU, LCBC and MNJTF troop-contributing countries (TCCs), the support includes air mobility service, command control communication and information system (C3IS) service, level III medical services, fuel to MNJTF sectors, mission subsistence allowances to military staff officers and running costs of the MNJTF headquarters, training on human rights and international humanitarian law, and funding for civil-military activities in the form of quick impact projects within the MNJTF area of operations.
• Status of Implementation of the AU Monitoring, Verification and Compliance Mission (AU-MVCM):
• In Northern Tigray, Ethiopia, the AU continues to support the implementation of the Ethiopian peace process, primarily through deploying the AU Monitoring, Verification, and Compliance Mechanism (AU-MVCM). Since its deployment, the situation in the Tigray region has continued to improve.

2023 (continued)

Operationalization of the African Standby Force (ASF)

• Strategic Review of the ASF:
• Pursuant to the directive of the14th meeting of the STCDSS, which requested the AU to work closelywith the RECs/RMs and Member States to undertake a comprehensive review of the African Standby Force (ASF), a workshop on the Reconceptualization of the ASF Concept was convened in Addis Ababa,Ethiopia from 29 to 31 March 2023, with no definitive conclusions.Consequently, the 15th meeting of the Specialized Technical Committee on Defense, Safety and Security (STCDSS), which was held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from 9 to 12 May 2023, directed the Commission to conduct a Strategic Review of the ASF and to submitits findings to the 16th meeting of the STCDSS.
• On 12 May 2023, the Commission convened the 15th STCDSS, which reviewed the progress made in the operationalization of the ASF and adopted key strategic policy and guidance documents, namely, the draft memorandum of understanding between the RECs/RMs on the ASF, as well as three documents under the AU Compliance and Accountability Framework (AUCF), including the draft AU Strategic Framework for Compliance and Accountability in PSOs, and the draft AU Policies on Selection and Screening, and the Protection of Civilians. Adopting these key policy documents will enable further implementation of the AUCF. These strategic documents adopted by the 15th meeting of the STCDSS are hereby submitted to the 37th Ordinary session of the AU Assembly, for consideration and adoption.
• The Commission finalized the drafting of the Strategic Lift Concept in 2023. The document has been validated and is awaiting submission to the 16th STCDSS. Additionally, the Commission held the meeting of the 15th Training Implementation Workshop, wherein training and capacity building for the ASF/PSOs priorities for the period 2024 - 2026 were identified and will form part of the 2024 - 2026 ASF/PSO Strategic Training Directives.
• The African Union Continental Logistics Base (CLB):
• As part of the efforts to enhance Peace Support Operations (PSOs), the CLB in January 2023 facilitated a shipment totaling Seven Million United States Dollars worth of equipment to Mozambique. Some of equipment was handed over to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) as part of the AU 's support to the SADC Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM). The equipment is part of China's second batch of equipment to the African Union. In August 2023 the MNJTF submitted a request of an additional support from the AU Commission, including equipment from CLB, to support the activities of the Mission in combating Boko Haram. The CLB has also received a request for support with providing APCs and materials to the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS). However, the equipment shipment has been delayed due to a lack of funds from the approved annual budget that would support the CLB in facilitating the shipment of equipment from the Base. The CLB also needs more staff capacities to support the Base, especially regarding executing timely shipments to regions in need. There is also the need to encourage RECs/RMs that have not done so, to take steps towards establishing and operationalizing their regional logistics depots.
• Milestone 2
• Milestone 3
• AU Compliance and Accountability Framework:
• Since the endorsement of the 'Report on Predictable and Sustainable Financing for Peace in Africa' by AU Assembly Decision Assembly/AU/Dec.605(XXVII) of July 2016, the Commission has taken steps to enhance the AU Human Rights Compliance and Accountability Framework (AUCF), by putting in place appropriate policies and mechanisms to enhance efforts to prevent, monitor and respond to allegations of violations of IHRL, IHL, PoC and AU standards of conduct and discipline. As part of efforts to continuously strengthen the AUCF, the Commission has finalized and adopted three strategic documents, as elaborated above, to be adopted by the Assembly of HOSG in February 2024. Additionally, the Commission has engaged broadly with PSOs, RECs/RMs, Training Centres of Excellence (TCEs), Military Attaches as well as AU Human Rights Organs, to ensure the mainstreaming of compliance and accountability into AUPSOs. Some of these engagements include the conduct of Technical Working Sessions with senior leadership of military and police training academies of SADC, EAC and ECOWAS Member States, including their respective TCEs and Institutions (TIs). The objective was to advocate for a joint approach in compliance with International Humanitarian Law (IHL), International Human Rights Law (IHRL) and Conduct and Discipline - as part of the implementation of the AU Strategic Framework on Compliance and Accountability in PSOs. A comprehensive roadmap for collaboration and partnership was drafted and agreed upon for the effective implementation of the AUCF.
• Relatedly, several Training of Trainers (TOT) sessions were conducted on the AU Compliance Curriculum to equip trainers with the requisite knowledge of the AUCF. As an outcome of these engagements, a comprehensive roadmap for collaboration and partnership was drafted and agreed upon to implement the AUCF effectively. Furthermore, the Commission also organized a joint experience-sharing engagement in collaboration with the ICRC and support from the UN and EU to assess the compliance and accountability status of existing PSOs and provide strategic guidance and support to the missions in strengthening their frameworks. Similarly, the Commission undertook a comprehensive review of the ATMIS Rules of Engagement and the Directives on the Use of Force, which have been approved and have since been dispatched to the mission for implementation. AUC-wide consultations were also convened to revitalize the AU Compliance Architecture to ensure comprehensive implementation of the AUCF. The meeting agreed on standardized Terms of Reference, including membership and the roles and responsibilities of the different offices within the Commission. Additionally, the Commission is currently working on the establishment of a comprehensive case management system to streamline accountability measures with respect to PSOs on issues relating to violation of IHL, IHRL and other acts amounting to misconduct under the relevant AU rules and regulations and to this end has developed a draft case management guideline which is being finalized.
• AMANI AFRICA III ASF Continental Maritime Exercise:
• The planning for the conduct of a continental maritime exercise is underway. It aims to test the regional maritime task forces and their cross-regional coordination and interoperability in addressing maritime security threats on the continent. The continental maritime exercise will seek to cover four (4) regional maritime bodies, namely, the Gulf of Guinea Region (for ECOWAS and ECCAS under the Yaounde Maritime Architecture), EASF, SADC, and NARC. As part of the planning processes, the Commission engaged with the Republic of Nigeria to understand the capabilities required and the level of involvement expected of participating Member States. Subsequently, the Commission visited the four (4) regions to discuss the exercise plan, and consolidate the inputs of RECs/RMs to guarantee a successful exercise.
• The Commission has also briefed the African Defense Advisors Forum (ADAF), Military Staff Committee (MSC) and the Chiefs of Navies and Coast Guards of the Gulf of Guinea during their virtual meeting on the establishment of their combined Maritime Taskforce on 18 April 2023. As guided by the 15th Ordinary meeting of the STCDSS held in May 2023, this exercise shall follow the ASF Exercise Planning Guidelines, including holding an Initial Planning Conference (IPC) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The planning of the exercise has, however, faced two key challenges: funding for the IPC and the follow-on activities and the slow pace of feedback from the RECs/RMs on the nominations needed for the exercise processes.
• Verification of the North African Regional Capability (NARC):
• Following a request by NARC and the subsequent decision by the STCDSS, a verification exercise was undertaken to NARC to ascertain the operational readiness of NARC to deploy under the ASF. NARC was the only regional mechanism that had not declared Full Operational Capability due to some considerations in developing the regional capabilities. The verification exercise was undertaken to the NARC Planning Element and one selected country to assess the pledged capabilities and the regional logistics bases. An assessment visit was also undertaken to the logistics base in Algeria. A report has been submitted to the STCDSS, and the recommendations on the operational readiness of NARC will subsequently be considered by the 16th STCDSS in May 2024.

(viii) Operationalization of the African Standby Force (ASF)

• 376. Strategic Review of the ASF: The 15th and 16th Ordinary meetings of the Specialized Technical Committee on Defense, Safety, and Security (STCDSS) directed the Commission to conduct a comprehensive strategic review process for the ASF. The review process was conducted in consultation with key stakeholders including the AU Member States, RECs/RMs, the AU PSC, Training Centres of Excellence/Training Institutions (TCEs/TIs), and other relevant stakeholders and partners.
• 377. Pursuant to this directive, the Commission initiated a phased approach to the review process involving multiple levels of consultations and engagements. The first phase, held from 2–6 December 2024 in Algiers, Algeria, included a Technical Consultative Meeting, and dedicated consultations with ASF RECs/RMs Planning Elements (PLANELMs), TCEs/TIs, and Subject Matter Experts. The outcomes of this phase developed draft recommendations and key considerations to inform the development of a Strategic Review Report and laid the groundwork for the next phase of engagements with key stakeholders envisioned to take place in the first quarter of 2025.
• 378. These include consultations with strategic partners and stakeholders, AU Member States and RECs/RMs, and the AUPSC. The main outcome in the form of the Strategic Review Report, will be presented to the 17th STCDSS meeting due for the second quarter of 2025, for further guidance and endorsement by AU Policy Organs.
• 379. The 14th Extraordinary Assembly of the Union held on 6th December 2020 declared the African Standby Force (ASF) as fully operational and directed the AU PSC to utilize the ASF framework in mandating and authorizing AU Peace Support Operations (PSOs). Pursuant to this decision, the Commission facilitated the conduct of the 16th ordinary meeting of the STCDSS in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on 5th June 2024. The STCDSS meeting deliberated on several crucial agenda items, culminating in the endorsement of strategic recommendations for enhanced continental security and cooperation. These include the request for the Commission to extend the consultation to include the PSC, AU Member States, and all RECs/RMs and African Centers of Excellence accredited to the AU, on the discussion of the detailed strategic review of the ASF. They also include the request for the Commission to develop a comprehensive and inclusive roadmap for the extensive review of the ASF building on the background paper, the outcome and recommendations of which should be presented at the next STCDSS meeting in 2025.
• 380. The STC meeting further endorsed the adoption of policies central to the operationalization of the ASF, including the AU Training Policy for Peace Support Operations, the AU Strategic Lift Concept, and the Guidelines for Case Management in Peace Support Operations.
• 381. The adoption of these key policy documents will enhance the standardization of training across AU PSOs and enable further implementation of the AUCF. The 16th STCDSS also welcomed and endorsed the strategic documents for submission to the 38th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly and the 45th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council.
• Milestones 3

Verification of African Regional Capability

• 386. The Commission in line with the African Standby Force Pledged Capabilities Verification Guidelines (2019) conducted verification of ASF pledges and Planning Elements within RECs/RMs to ascertain the operational readiness of the ASF. The verification exercise focused on personnel (civilian, military, and police), political decision-making processes and legal frameworks, mission support, and training and exercises among others. Verification exercises were carried out with the EASF Secretariat, NARC, and ECCAS. These RECs/RMs have shown a continued improvement of ASF capabilities through regular verification of pledges by Member States, continued training as well as exercises. Challenges however remain on funding, Member States’ hesitancy to have their pledges verified, and the staffing in Planning Elements that has seen key functions not being staffed owing mainly to limited funding.

AU Compliance and Accountability Framework

• 387. The African Union Compliance and Accountability Framework (AUCF) Project has made significant progress in enhancing prevention, response, and remedial measures to ensure that its Peace Support Operations (PSOs) are conducted in compliance with International Human Rights Law (IHRL), International Humanitarian Law (IHL), Protection of Civilians (POC) and standards of conduct and discipline. Following the adoption of key policies, including the AU Policy on Protection of Civilians in PSOs, the AUCF has taken critical steps to facilitate their implementation.
• 388. Notable efforts include a mission to the ATMIS which engaged its leadership on the new POC policy, assessed the impact of the ATMIS drawdown on civilian protection, and discussed tools and measures for enhanced POC. This afforded the opportunity to also introduce the revised Rules of Engagement (RoE) and Directive on the Use of Force (DUoF) to military and police leadership while addressing civilian protection challenges through collaboration with Somali Security Forces and Troop/Police Contributing Countries (T/PCCs).
• 389. Furthermore, the AUCF project engaged in working sessions with T/PCCs in May 2024 to strengthen selection and screening mechanisms for PSO personnel, addressing gaps in vetting processes, training programs, and coordination.
• 390. The AUCF project continues to support RECs/RMs such as ECOWAS and SADC as well as PSOs including SAMI DRC and MNJTF by providing technical assistance and developing mission-specific compliance frameworks as well as targeted training on Compliance and Accountability. The targeted training included the AU training of trainers for NARC Member States from 22-31 July 2024 in Cairo, Egypt, support to EASF in organizing a basic training on compliance and accountability for its personnel in Kigali, Rwanda, from 2-10 August 2024, the AU in collaboration with Nigeria's National Defense College (NDC) conducted a Pilot training on the protection of civilians in peace support operations from 26-30 August 2024 in Abuja. Likewise, the basic training on compliance and accountability was arranged for SAMI-DRC from 18-22 November 2024.
• 391. A major achievement has been the development of a case management system to digitize the case management process. To enhance the reporting process, the AUCF project has developed guidelines for standardized complaint information reception mechanisms and communication with T/PCCs regarding violations of IHRL and IHL as well as personnel misconduct.
• 392. Additionally, the AUCF project, in collaboration with the Office of Internal Oversight, has conducted specialized training sessions for ATMIS to strengthen the capacity of personnel in handling cases of misconduct.
• 393. On the remedial front, the AUCF project finalized a Policy on Remedial Actions for Victims of Misconduct and Harm in AU PSOs, aimed at providing timely and comprehensive redress for victims, including those affected by sexual exploitation and abuse. These initiatives underscore the AUCF’s commitment to strengthening accountability, protecting civilians, and addressing misconduct within AU PSOs. The policy will be submitted to the policy organs for approval.

(ix) Operationalization of the Peace Fund and Financing AU Peace and Security Activities

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E. PEACE SUPPORT OPERATIONS

• 232. In 2025, the AU Commission directed its efforts toward consolidating ongoing field operations while advancing institutional and capability reforms essential for effective mission delivery. The year was marked by major undertakings, including the transition from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to the African Union Support and stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM); the provision of strategic oversight and technical support to the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in the Lake Chad Basin; the Strategic Review of the ASF to enhance readiness and interoperability; the institutionalisation of the AU Compliance and Accountability Framework (AUCF); and the operationalisation of critical enabling systems, notably the Command, Control, Communication and Information Systems (C3IS) and the Continental Movement Coordination Centre (CMCC).
• 233. The African Union Support and stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM):
  Following the conclusion of ATMIS, the Commission, oversaw the establishment of the AUSSOM, mandated by the PSC at its 1287th meeting. The closure of ATMIS and startup of AUSSOM represented more than a change of mission name: it affirmed the AU’s continued political and operational commitment to accompany Somalia on its path toward lasting stability and self-reliant security institutions. Through sustained coordination between the AU Commission, the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS), the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), and Troop and Police Contributing Countries (T/PCCs), the AU successfully completed the planning and initial deployment phase of AUSSOM, ensuring uninterrupted security operations after ATMIS draw-down. The Commission led joint AU-UN technical assessments, conducted several Pre-Deployment Verifications (PDVs) and Contingent-Owned Equipment (COE) inspections, and validated AUSSOM Statements of Unit Requirements (SUR), thereby certifying mission readiness and accountability.
• 234. In accordance with the decisions of the Extra Ordinary Summit of AUSSOM Troop Contributing Countries and Somalia, chaired by H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda held on 25 April 2025, Uganda and Ethiopia deployed additional troops on a bilateral basis, in the short run, to address the prevailing security situation in Somalia, so as not to roll back the hard-earned gains. This has enhanced the efforts of the AUSSOM and SNF in fighting against Al Shabab terrorist group.
• 235. The start-up of AUSSOM showcased improved inter-institutional coordination mechanisms. A strategic meeting of the Somalia Operations Coordination Committee (SOCC) earlier in the year reinforced political cohesion between the AU, the FGS, and the UN. The development of a unified Concept of Support under the AU-UN Mission Support Workstream further strengthened operational synergies and resource mobilisation, aligning field operations with the principles of UN Security Council Resolution 2719 (2023) on predictable financing of AU-mandated PSOs. The closure of ATMIS and the startup of AUSSOM reaffirmed the AU’s capacity to design and execute complex mission transformations under tight timelines, preserving security gains while reducing external dependence. It also demonstrated progress toward the African ownership and financial accountability envisioned in Agenda 2063 and the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA). Operational continuity at its Mission Headquarters in Mogadishu and key population centres helped maintain relative stability, enabling Somali authorities to expand governance and service delivery.
• 236. The UN Security Council has the primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security. Whatever the AU does at the regional level, it does so on behalf of the UN Security Council. The Peace and Security Council has been calling for the implementation of UNSC Resolution 2719 (2023), as the only way to ensure adequate predictable, and sustainable funding for the Mission and the provision of sufficient force multipliers and enablers. Regrettably UNSC did not reach consensus on the application of UNSC Resolution 2719(2023) on Somalia as the first case.
• 237. It should be noted that AUSSOM is starting its second year in 2026 and the Mission is suffering from lack of funding for its activities. The annual budget for AUSSOM is about USD 196 million In 2025, only USD 120 million was mobilized, leaving a gap of 75.8 million USD. The AU Commission with the support of FGS and UN has undertaken a number of resource mobilization activities including pledging conference, but the situation remains a major concern.
• 238. The Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF): Operating under the AU authorised mandate and the regional mechanism of the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC), continues to serve as the principal regional framework for countering terrorism and violent extremism in the Lake Chad Basin. The Force remains a demonstration of African solidarity and burden-sharing in confronting threats posed by Boko Haram and its two splinter factions namely, Jama'atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda'awati wal-Jihad (JAS) and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), whose activities have destabilised communities and disrupted cross-border trade. The cohesion of the force, the diversity in the MNJTF Headquarters’ staffing by the TCCs, as well as the partner support from the Commission, the EU and the P3 countries of the UN Security Council, have all engendered operational readiness and effectiveness of the force. Guided by PSC Communiqué PSC/PR/COMM.1254 (2024), the Commission, has provided strategic oversight and operational support to ensure the MNJTF’s continued effectiveness and accountability.
• 239. The MNJTF sustained offensive operations that degraded terrorist networks and limited their freedom of movement across the border areas of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Republic of Niger, the Republic of Chad and the Republic of Cameroon. These coordinated efforts resulted in the neutralisation of Boko Haram combatants, destruction of their strongholds and logistics bases, cutting off their logistic supply chains, facilitating the return of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), enhancing the return of civil authorities to several communities, and the reopening of critical supply routes connecting previously isolated communities. The MNJTF also intensified non-kinetic Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) interventions as a critical complement to the humanitarian action within the MNJTF area of operations and delivered limited but critical humanitarian assistance that bridged existing humanitarian gaps. MNJTF’s humanitarian interventions have reinforced stabilisation programmes of the LCBC, enhanced local governance capacity while creating a safe environment for other humanitarian actors to execute their activities.
• 240. At the institutional level, the AU Commission continued to manage the EUR 20 million support package from the EU, focusing on air mobility, Level III medical services, communications and information systems, logistics, and mission subsistence allowances for staff officers at MNJTF Headquarters and mission sustainment. This additional support complemented national contributions and enhanced the Force’s operational tempo. Furthermore, the Peace and Security Council, at its 1282nd meeting held on 10 June 2025, endorsed the adjusted strategy, following its adoption by the LCBC Member States on 27 February 2025. The strategy’s duration was extended by six years, from 2025 to 2030, to ensure continued alignment with ongoing military efforts on the ground.
• 241. The MNJTF’s operations during the reporting period restored stability across key border corridors and facilitated humanitarian access for UN and non-governmental partners. These gains contributed directly to the implementation of the Lake Chad Basin Regional Strategy for Stabilisation, Recovery and Resilience, effectively linking security achievements with broader stabilisation and development objectives. The Force’s continued success demonstrated the viability of regionally led and AU- authorised security coalitions, reinforcing Africa’s collective capacity to address complex and transnational threats. The PSC, at its 1318th meeting of 15 December 2025, renewed the mandate of MNJTF for 12 months, effective from 1 February 2026 to 31 January 2027, and requested the AU Commission and the LCBC to renew the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and Support Implementation Agreement (SIA) that guides the provision of the AU’s additional support to the MNJTF for a period of one year, starting from 1 February 2026 to 31 January 2027; and the AU Commission to maintain institutional collaboration and support in the implementation of the adjusted Regional Strategy for stabilisation, Recovery and Resilience 2.0 (RS-SRR2.0). The PSC also requested the AU Commission, in consultation with the UN, to envisage the application of UNSC Resolution 2719 (2023) to finance the MNJTF and LCBC activities.
• 242. Despite notable progress, the MNJTF continues to operate under complex and demanding conditions, including the increasing use of remote devices by terrorists to perpetrate attacks. Furthermore, the temporary suspension of operations by one participating Member State has created security vulnerabilities along the MNJTF’s northern flank, enabling the proliferation of weapons and the movement of foreign fighters. The Force also faces persistent shortfalls in funding and critical operational capabilities, including limited force enablers and force multipliers on ground and in air, Counter-Improvised Explosive Device (CIED) and counter-drone assets, and limited amphibious platforms necessary for operations in the Lake Chad’s numerous islands. These limitations have affected the MNJTF’s ability to sustain momentum, consolidate liberated areas, and maintain pressure on insurgent groups across multiple national sectors.
• 243. Looking ahead, consolidating the gains achieved will require enhanced coordination among TCCs, strengthened logistics and intelligence-sharing frameworks, and greater investment in enablers that can sustain the operational tempo. Continued collaboration between the LCBC Secretariat, AU Commission, and partners remains vital to address identified capability gaps and to support the Force’s evolving CONOPs. Sustained cohesion and political commitment among participating countries will remain central to ensuring that recent operational successes translate into durable stabilisation and security gains across the Lake Chad Basin region. In order to strengthen the technical capacity, policies and frameworks of core regional and national institutions supporting the operations of the MNJTF as well as align them with the strategic framework of the AUCTC, the AU Commission signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Nigerian National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), on 8 September 2025. The key areas of collaboration in the MoU include information sharing in real time, seconding NCTC Experts to AUCTC, conducting joint research and supporting victim recovery, deradicalisation and reintegration. Following the signing of the MOU, a joint AUCTC undertook a mapping study of the National Counter-terrorism Centre Nigeria towards designating the NCTC as a Centre of excellence on counter-terrorism, from 9th – 12th December 2025.

Implementation of the Permanent Cessation of Hostilities Agreement

• 245. Three years have passed since the historic signing of the Agreement for Lasting Peace through a Permanent Cessation of Hostilities (the Pretoria Peace Agreement) between the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front on 2 November 2022. On 29 December 2022, pursuant to the Pretoria Peace Agreement, the African Union established the Monitoring, Verification and Compliance Mechanism to monitor the permanent cessation of hostilities in Tigray region of Northern Ethiopia. This landmark accord has silenced the guns in Tigray region, established an interim regional administration, expedited the delivery of humanitarian aid, initiated the Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) process, restored essential public services, rehabilitated public infrastructure, and resumed socio-economic activities, including the reinstatement of essential services and the resumption of commercial flights.
• 246. The AU Monitoring, Verification and Compliance Mechanism (MVCM) continues to discharge its responsibilities in support of in sustaining peace. The Mechanism engages with the Federal Government and key stakeholders, including the TPLF, and international partners such as UN agencies. It conducts long-range patrols across the region to monitor adherence to the Pretoria Peace Agreement and works closely with the National Rehabilitation Commission to advance DDR proess. In 2023, the AU allocated USD 1 million from its Peace Fund Crisis Reserve Facility to support the government-led DDR process and urged partners to make further contributions. However, DDR implementation has remained stalled since September 2025.

E. PEACE SUPPORT OPERATIONS continued

The AU Compliance and Accountability Framework (AUCF):




• 248. The Commission continued to consolidate progress in institutionalizing compliance and accountability mechanisms across its PSOs. Guided by the AU Compliance and Accountability Framework (AUCF), the Commission, advanced implementation of key systems and policies designed to strengthen discipline, integrity, and adherence to international humanitarian and human rights law within deployed missions. A major milestone was the launch of the AU Case Management System (CMS), a centralised digital platform for tracking, investigating, and resolving allegations of misconduct. Once fully operational, the CMS will enable systematic screening of personnel, enhance real- time monitoring, and support data-driven decision-making, thereby reinforcing mission transparency and credibility. The AUCF project also delivered extensive capacity- building programmes that trained investigators from T/PCCs and mission structures in professional investigative techniques, evidence management, and trauma-informed approaches to misconduct investigations.
• 249. Other achievements included the revision of the MNJTF Protection of Civilians Strategy, aligning field practice with AU policy standards and strengthening mission responsiveness to civilian protection. The development of a standardized training curriculum on investigating misconduct and the finalization of a Third-Party Claims Policy have expanded the AU’s accountability architecture, providing coherent mechanisms for prevention, redress, and professional conduct across PSOs. Regional efforts were also advanced through training-of-trainers programmes for Member States of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) and induction sessions for MNJTF personnel, which created sustainable capacities for dissemination and implementation of compliance standards.
• 250. Collectively, these achievements underscore the AU determination to ensure its peace operations embody the highest standards of conduct and respect for human rights. The institutionalization of compliance mechanisms across missions has not only enhanced operational effectiveness but also reinforced the AU credibility as a norm- setting continental actor committed to protecting civilians and promoting principled peace operations in Africa.

Strategic Lift and Command, Control, Communication and Information Systems (C3IS):




• 251. During the reporting period, the Commission advanced key operational enablers essential for the effectiveness and interoperability of AU PSOs. These efforts focused on strengthening strategic lift capacities and implementing a C3IS System to enhance coordination, mobility, and information exchange across the ASF and AU- mandated missions.
• 252. Strategic Lift: Following the adoption of the AU Strategic Lift Concept by the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the AU in February 2025, the Commission signed a bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federal Republic of Nigeria for the provision of strategic sealift support to the AU. Technical frameworks to operationalize the MoU were finalized, confirming Nigeria’s readiness to provide maritime assets for AU deployments. Similar frameworks were concluded with the Republics of Cameroon and Côte d’Ivoire for the provision of strategic airlift support. These arrangements form the foundation for a continental air and sea lift capability to sustain AU-mandated operations and humanitarian relief missions.
• 253. Complementing these efforts, the Commission, through the CMCC, advanced cooperation with the three RECs and two RMs for Conflict Prevention, Management and Resolution, namely the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Southern African Development Community, the Eastern Africa Standby Force, and the North African Regional Capability (NARC) to operationalize their respective Regional Movement Coordination Centres (RMCCs). These CMCC-RMCC frameworks establish clear functional relations between the AU, Member States, and RECs/RMs for planning and executing strategic lift operations. In partnership with the UN, the Commission also initiated a Technical Support Agreement for Strategic Lift under the AU-UN Memorandum of Intent on Operational Support Cooperation, further aligning strategic lift systems with UN standards and logistics infrastructure.
• 254. Building on the C3IS Technical Working Group outcomes held in Lusaka, Zambia, in 2024, the Commission initiated the implementation of a continental C3IS architecture linking the AU Headquarters PSO Centre (PSOC) with three RECs and two RMs, the AU Continental Logistics Base (AU-CLB) and Regional Logistics Depots (RLDs). The system aims to strengthen strategic communication, command-and- control, and coordination between PSOD, as the ASF’s strategic headquarters, and regional Planning Elements (PLANELMS).
• 255. Technical assessment missions were conducted to the AU-CLB, EASF, ECCAS, NARC, SADC and ECOWAS, to evaluate existing communication infrastructure and readiness for system installation. These visits provided baseline data for planning future phases and fostered stronger coordination between the AU and regional structures. Once operational, the C3IS platform will provide secure, real- time information exchange, improving situational awareness and operational decision- making across the ASF and AU PSOs.
• 256. Collectively, these initiatives underscore the AU commitment to strengthening mission enablers, interoperability, and readiness, key pillars for the effective operationalisation of the ASF and for enhancing the sustainability and self-reliance of AU-mandated PSOs.
• 257. ASF Readiness and Strategic Review: Building on progress achieved in mission enablers, the Commission, continued efforts to strengthen the readiness and interoperability of the ASF. During the reporting period, the Commission advanced capacity-building, training and verification activities across the various RECs/RMs to ensure the operationalisation of pledged capabilities and the availability of trained personnel for rapid deployment. The annual coordination meeting of the African Standby Capacity (ASC) roster, held in Johannesburg in June 2025, reviewed the status of the roster and recommended measures to enhance its management and utilisation. In parallel, a verification visit was conducted to the SADC PLANELM to assess the readiness of pledged capabilities. A series of workshops and exercises, conducted in collaboration with partners including the UN, NATO, and Training Centres of Excellence (TCEs), supported the development of standardised training packages for police and military personnel, as well as leadership and pre-deployment curricula to improve performance and mission preparedness.
• 258. At the strategic level, the Commission advanced and concluded the ASF Strategic Review process, as directed by the 15th and 16th Ordinary Meetings of the Specialized Technical Committee on Defence, Safety and Security (STCDSS). Guided by Member States, the process adopted a consultative and phased approach involving AU Member States, RECs/RMs, Training Centres of Excellence and Institutions (TCEs/TIs), research bodies, and strategic partners. Technical consultations were held in Algiers, Algeria in December 2024, followed by Member State and Partner Consultations in Accra, Ghana in October 2025, which produced substantive recommendations on institutional, operational, and capability reforms to ensure a fit- for-purpose ASF. A dedicated consultation with the PSC’s Military Staff Committee (MSC) subsequently validated the emerging findings, and the consolidated ASF Strategic Review Report was submitted to the 17th Ordinary Meeting of the STCDSS for consideration and policy endorsement.
• 259. The completion of the ASF Strategic Review marked an important milestone in repositioning the ASF as the primary continental instrument for collective security and rapid response. Complementary efforts in capability development, roster management, and training have enhanced readiness across regions, ensuring that Africa’s PSO capacity continues to evolve in line with emerging security dynamics. Continued collaboration with the UN, EU, and other strategic partners remains vital to ensuring adequate and predictable financing for AU-mandated operations, consistent with UN Security Council Resolution 2719 (2023).
• 260. The 17th Ordinary Session of the Specialized Technical Committee on Defence, Safety and Security (STCDSS) was held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on 11 December 2025. The Meeting considered and adopted the Draft Report of the 17th Ordinary Session of the Specialized Technical Committee on Defence, Safety and Security. The Report of the 17th STCDSS will be submitted to the 48th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council for onward transmission to the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the Union, scheduled to take place in February 2026.

Second Abuja Lessons Learned Forum

• 261. The AU Commission convened the Second Lessons Learned Forum on African Union Peace Support Operations and the African Standby Force in Abuja, Nigeria from 08 – 09 November 2025.
• 262. The core objectives of the Forum was to assess how the Peace Support Operations have been implemented in the past three (3) years both at the AU and regional levels, infuse key considerations in the operationalization of the ASF especially in line with the current strategic review of the ASF, and interrogate lessons in line with efforts to secure sustainable funding for the ASF and PSOs (experiences of the utilization of the Peace Fund and implementation of UNSCR 2719 (2023). To this end, the Forum, provided lessons on the recent missions, including ATMIS, The Gambia, SAMIM, SAMIDRC, the EAC Regional Force Mission to the DRC, the ECOWAS deployment to Guinea Bissau, and the MNJTF, with a focus on operational, strategic, and institutional insights to inform future AU- mandated and authorized PSOs. It also discussed sustainable funding for AU and regionally-led Peace Support Operations, including options for predictable and flexible financing mechanisms in line with the principles of UN Security Council Resolution 2719 (2023). In addition, it considered the new era of peace enforcement, assessing evolving threat environments, mandates, and the implications for mission planning, force generation, and interoperability among AU and REC/RM components. The Forum also had an in- depth reflection on the operationalization of the African Standby Force (ASF), focusing on enhancing readiness, capability generation, and deployment modalities to ensure the ASF remains a credible and fit for purpose instrument for collective security on the continent.