UN ends three decades of political missions in Somalia as Somalis take the lead
'Not an end to the partnership': some 25 UN agencies stay on as Somali institutions take full responsibility for recovery.
Lire cet article en français →
Mogadishu — The UN Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia closes on Saturday, ending three decades of UN political missions in the country and handing full responsibility for its recovery to Somali institutions.
"Somalia today possesses national and federal institutions that did not exist when the UN's political engagement began," said Raisedon Zenenga, the mission's officer-in-charge. He pointed to progress on state formation, political inclusion, the constitution and human rights.
The UN isn't leaving
Some 25 UN agencies continue humanitarian and development work. In Balcad, the migration agency rebuilt a vegetable market with 56 stalls, running water and solar lighting, with about 70% of stalls going to women-headed households and businesses. The health ministry and UNICEF have launched national newborn care guidelines.
The challenges ahead
4.8 million Somalis need humanitarian help this year, and by mid-October only about 35% of the $852 million aid appeal had been funded. Poverty and a fragile economy remain the next test.
"Today is not an end to the partnership," Zenenga said. "It marks the conclusion of one chapter and the beginning of another."
Source: UN News, 31 October 2026.
