The United Nations promises to continue supporting Somalia after the closure of UNTMIS

New York – The United Nations (UN) has pledged to continue its support for Somalia, utilizing its agencies, funds, and programs operating in the country, following the conclusion of its temporary operation in Somalia.

The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, stated that the UN will maintain its presence in Somalia and will work with the federal government, the African Union, and other international partners to promote peace, stability, human rights, and sustainable development.

Guterres announced this on Saturday, October 31, which was the planned day for the official conclusion of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) after a period of being part of the peacebuilding efforts in Somalia.

In a press release shared on his X platform, Guterres mentioned that the closure of UNTMIS does not mean that the United Nations is leaving Somalia, but that it will continue to support other agencies operating in the country.

“The United Nations will continue to support Somalia through resident agencies, funds, and programs, working with Somali agencies, the African Union, and other international partners to promote peace, stability, human rights, and sustainable development,” Guterres said.

The Secretary-General also praised the progress Somalia has made in recent years, commending the resilience and determination of the Somali people, despite the many challenges still facing the country.

“I commend the progress made and the determination and resilience of the Somali people, despite the many challenges they face,” he added.

Guterres also thanked the personnel who worked on UNTMIS and the previous United Nations operations, noting those who lost their lives while working to support peace in Somalia.

However, he acknowledged that Somalia still faces major challenges related to politics, security, humanitarian conditions, and development. He called for the international community to continue supporting the country, to strengthen progress, to encourage inclusive political dialogue and reconciliation, and to build government institutions while upholding human rights.

The closure of UNTMIS follows a two-year transition process that began in November 2024, after the United Nations Security Council approved Resolution 2753 (2024).

This process came after a request from the Federal Government of Somalia to the United Nations, regarding the transfer of additional responsibilities related to governance, peacebuilding, and security matters to Somali institutions.

According to the United Nations, the activities of UNTMIS have been gradually transferred to Somali government institutions and other United Nations agencies, their funds, and programs.