African Union and EU Strengthen Horn of Africa Peace Initiative
Addis Ababa, 29 January 2026
High-level diplomatic engagement between continental powers signals renewed commitment to addressing regional crises affecting millions across Sudan, Somalia, and South Sudan through enhanced multilateral cooperation and mediation efforts.
Strategic Diplomatic Partnership Takes Shape
The African Union Commission Chairperson, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, received H.E. Ms. Annette Weber, the European Union’s Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, on Wednesday, 29 January 2026 [1][2]. Their discussions centred on regional peace and security challenges, with particular emphasis on enhanced AU-EU cooperation in mediation, peace support operations, and diplomatic initiatives [1][2]. The meeting underscored both organisations’ shared commitment to strengthening multilateralism as a foundation for addressing the Horn’s complex security landscape [1][2]. This high-level engagement represents a critical juncture for international cooperation in a region where millions of refugees and displaced persons depend on coordinated humanitarian and security responses [GPT].
Recognition of Sustained Regional Engagement
During the diplomatic talks, Chairperson Youssouf commended Ambassador Weber’s sustained engagement in advancing dialogue across Sudan, South Sudan, and Somalia, highlighting the close collaboration between the AU and EU in these critical areas [1][2]. This recognition reflects the ongoing international efforts to stabilise regions where conflict has displaced vast populations and created humanitarian emergencies affecting border communities [GPT]. Weber’s role has been particularly significant in coordinating international mediation efforts that directly impact refugee safety and cross-border movements in these conflict-affected areas [GPT]. The sustained engagement model demonstrates how consistent diplomatic presence can help maintain dialogue channels even during periods of escalating regional tensions [GPT].
EU Commitment to AU-Led Operations
Ms. Weber reaffirmed the European Union’s support for African Union leadership and agency in mediation processes, including continued contributions to AU-led peace support operations, notably in Somalia [1][2]. This commitment is particularly crucial given the ongoing anti-Al Shabaab military mission in Somalia, which involves nearly 12,000 troops and is planned to transfer full security responsibility to Somali forces by December 2029 [3]. The EU’s financial backing for these operations directly affects the stability of regions where refugee camps and host communities coexist, with enhanced security enabling better access to humanitarian services [GPT]. The partnership model reinforces the principle of African solutions to African problems whilst maintaining essential international support mechanisms [GPT].
Broader Context of Regional Challenges
The diplomatic meeting occurred against a backdrop of significant humanitarian and funding challenges across the Horn of Africa. The EU has provided €6.5 million in funding to the UN’s World Food Programme in Somalia, yet the organisation faces a critical $90 million funding shortfall and potential closure in April without additional international donor support [3]. This funding crisis directly threatens food security for refugee populations and host communities who rely on WFP assistance programmes [GPT]. The timing of the AU-EU discussions reflects the urgency of coordinating international responses to prevent humanitarian programme closures that would disproportionately impact the region’s most vulnerable populations, including refugees who depend on these services for survival [GPT].