In its 9th Mandate, the EUTM Somalia contributes to building up the Somali Security Forces (SSF) accountable to the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS), in line with Somali needs and priorities, providing strategic level advice to Somali authorities within the Security Institutions in the Mogadishu Area as well as specific mentoring, advice and capacity building in the training domain. Furthermore when conditions permitting and pending EU PSC approval, EUTM-S should be prepared to expand their activities to Regional HQ’s. EUTM-S will also provide support, within means and capabilities, to other EU and international actors in the implementation of their respective mandates following PSC guidance and given their values/ principles/ aims and interests aligned with the EU’s.

In this light EUTM – Somalia has to play, on behalf of the EU, an essential role in the reform and enhancement of the capacity of Somali’s security institutions (focused on Ministry of Defence and General Staff), providing military advice at the political and strategic levels to Somali authorities within the security institutions, and supporting the build-up of a sustainable Somali-owned military training system with a new training concept and training and advising in the Sector Headquarters.

In particular, EUTM-S trains company level units (integrated and multi clan), carrying out courses to train future trainers (Train the Trainers Program) and conducting its advising and mentoring role in favor of Somali Ministry of Defense and Somali National Armed Forces (SNA) personnel. These activities, led by the Mission, are accomplished in close coordination with others International Partners based in Somalia.

EUTM Somalia implements its mandate utilizing a three-pillar approach that focuses on training, mentoring and the provision of strategic advice to the Somali National Armed Forces. Throughout the years, the EU training mission has refocused its tasks, and sets out to support the internal development of specialized functions such as leadership, command & control, counter-IED, medical care, and logistics. EUTM Somalia contributes to an intensive training programme at the General Dhagabadan Training Center near Mogadishu. In close cooperation with the European Peace Facility, EUTM Somalia provides advice on Somali National Armed Forces needs and training courses for new equipment.

The Political and Security Committee (PSC) exercises the political control and strategic direction under the responsibility of the Council of the European Union and of the High Representative.

For its part, the Military Planning and Conduct Capability (MPCC) monitors the correct execution of the mission conducted under the responsibility of the Mission Force Commander, Brigadier General Elio MANES.

The EU supports the Somali institutions in the process towards a peaceful Somalia. It continues to engage with the Somali Federal Government and supports its efforts towards improving the living conditions of the population, including in the field of security and the delivery of basic services. The EU supports the principles laid down in the Djibouti Peace Agreement, including the spirit of reconciliation and the search for an inclusive process in Somalia.

In addition to EUTM Somalia, there are a range of EU instruments contributing to the development of the security sector in Somalia, in cooperation with international partners. The EU Naval Force (EU NAVFOR) – Operation ATALANTA contributes to the prevention and deterrence of piracy and the protection of vulnerable shipping. The EU also contributes to the development of coastal police and the judiciary in Somalia, among other countries, through its regional civilian mission – EUCAP Somalia. Additionally, EU development aid (e.g. education and job creation programs) supports alternative livelihoods, thus contributing to the development of economic opportunities that will attract young Somalis away from criminal activities and extremism.

The EU is a major sponsor of ATMIS, the African Transition Mission in Somalia peacekeeping mission in Somalia, both financially and also through planning and capacity building. The EU has been funding ATMIS since its launch in March 2007 through the African Peace Facility (APF).