The United Nations has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Somalia's peace, stability, and development through its resident agencies, funds, and programmes, following the closure of its transitional mission in the country. On October 31, UN Secretary-General António Guterres announced that the organisation would maintain its presence in Somalia, working with the country's authorities and the African Union to advance peace, stability, and development. This move comes after more than two decades of UN involvement in Somalia's peacebuilding efforts.
The closure of the United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) marks the end of a significant chapter in the country's history. The mission was scheduled to cease operations on October 31, after a two-year transition process initiated by the UN Security Council in November 2024. The transition process was launched in response to a request by Somalia's federal government to assume greater responsibility for the country's governance, peacebuilding, and security affairs. The UN mission's functions have been transferred to Somali institutions and other UN agencies, funds, and programmes.
Guterres commended the progress Somalia had made over the years, praising the resilience of its people despite the challenges facing the country. He expressed gratitude to personnel who had served in UNTMIS and its predecessor missions, paying tribute to those who lost their lives while working to promote peace in Somalia. The UN chief also acknowledged that Somalia continued to face significant political, security, humanitarian, and development challenges.
The UN Secretary-General called for sustained international support to consolidate progress, advance inclusive political dialogue and reconciliation, strengthen institutions, and protect human rights in Somalia. He emphasised the importance of continued international engagement to help the country overcome its challenges. The closure of UNTMIS follows a significant transition process, but it does not mark the end of all international security operations in Somalia.
The African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), which includes Kenyan troops, operates under a separate mandate from UNTMIS. AUSSOM's current authorisation runs until December 31, 2026, following an extension by the UN Security Council. This mission will continue to play a crucial role in supporting Somalia's security and stability.
The closure of UNTMIS marks the end of more than three decades of UN missions supporting peacebuilding, state-building, governance, and reconciliation in Somalia. The UN's continued engagement in the country through its resident agencies, funds, and programmes demonstrates its commitment to supporting Somalia's long-term development and stability.
The UN's continued support to Somalia will focus on advancing peace, stability, human rights, and sustainable development. The organisation will work in partnership with Somali authorities, the African Union, and other international partners to help the country overcome its challenges and build a more stable and prosperous future.
Key points
- The UN will continue to support Somalia through its resident agencies, funds, and programmes.
- The closure of UNTMIS marks the end of more than three decades of UN missions in Somalia.
- The African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) will continue to operate in the country.
