Somalia had been elected to the PSC on 11 February 2026 during the 39th African Union Summit, securing continental approval for a two-year term from 2026–2028. Ambassador Abdullahi Mohamed Warfaa, Somalia’s Ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the AU, presided over the flag-raising ceremony, describing the occasion as "a historic moment symbolizing Somalia’s commitment to advancing peace, security, and regional stability across Africa.”

Ambassador Warfaa, who has served as Somalia’s chief diplomat in Ethiopia since 2022, has played a key role in strengthening Somalia’s engagement with AU institutions and advancing its continental diplomatic profile. Speaking to Lamaane News Network at the PSC headquarters, he added, "Somalia brings experience, resilience, and perspective to AU peace and security deliberations, reflecting the progress made in stabilization, state-building, and security sector reform.”

Ambassador El Hadji Ibrahima Diene, Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) for Somalia and Head of AUSSOM, commented, "This milestone is a moment of great pride for Somalia and reflects the growing recognition of the country’s constructive engagement within the African Union. AUSSOM congratulates H.E. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and the people of Somalia on this achievement.”

Observers at the ceremony noted a formal, dignified setting with AU officials, diplomats, and media present. Attendees described the event as "optimistic and historically significant,” highlighting Somalia’s journey from prolonged internal security challenges to active continental leadership in peace and security.

The AU Peace and Security Council, established in 2003 under the AU Constitutive Act, serves as Africa’s premier organ for conflict prevention, mediation, and regional security policy coordination. Somalia joins nine other countries—Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Uganda, Morocco, Lesotho, South Africa, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, and Sierra Leone—elected to the PSC for the 2026–2028 term. The election followed Kenya and Rwanda’s withdrawal, narrowing the regional contest and enabling Somalia’s first representation on the Council.

Foreign Minister Abdisalam Ali tweeted, "Grateful to AU Member States for their trust and to our Eastern Africa region for their solidarity. This is a historic first for Somalia. We will serve with responsibility and resolve, advancing peace, security, and African unity.”

Analysts note that Somalia’s PSC membership strengthens its ability to influence AU deliberations on peacekeeping, security sector reform, and regional stabilization. Lamaane News Network sources highlight that the country’s dual representation at the AU PSC and the United Nations Security Council underscores its expanding role in continental and global diplomacy.