Question 18
Mr M P Sibande (ANC-MP) to ask the Deputy President:
Whether South Africa will offer assistance to Somalia as reportedly expressed by the African Union; if not, why not; if so, (a) what are the terms of engagement with Somalia and (b) what are the further relevant details?
Reply:
No final decision has been made as to what South Africa’s assistance to Somalia would be.
One of the most important aspects as acknowledged by the African leaders at the Kampala Summit is that a military intervention alone would not resolve the Somalia conflict. A comprehensive approach that addresses the political process, security and piracy is needed. As a result, it is crucial that a search for a comprehensive all-inclusive solution be stepped up.
The major challenge is broadening participation in the Somali political process to include an overwhelming number of parties that will lead to an all-inclusive ceasefire agreement.This has to be done in cooperation with other African partners, in particular the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) an organisation to which Somalia belongs.
The African Union, through the Chair of the Commission, approached South Africa to assist in relation to the contribution of troops, provision of equipment to support the troops, assistance to the maritime component, or funding for the peace mission, all of which would have financial and human resources implications for South Africa. In view of these implications, it is important that the matter first be discussed by Cabinet, before a decision is taken.
In the meantime, South Africa will consult with other interested parties on Somalia, like the IGAD countries and the African Union Mission in Somalia, on how best to support the political process and to find a lasting solution in Somalia.
I thank you.
