UN Security Council extends UNSOM mandate in Somalia amid Al-Shabaab menace

NEW YORK - The United Nations Security Council has expressed concerns over renewed Al-Shabaab attacks in Somalia while opting to extend the mandate of the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia [UNSOM], which will among others, help the country stabilize besides taking charge of humanitarian assistance.

UNSOM, which has been in Somalia for a couple of years, will now stay 12 months longer, as it works with African Union Transition Mission in Somalia [ATMIS] to help the country tackle Al-Shabaab militants, who control large swathes of rural central and southern Somalia.

"The Council requested UNSOM to maintain and strengthen its presence across Somalia and to continue to cooperate with that country and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia [ATMIS]."

In a tough-worded statement, the security council team warned of any obstruction of humanitarian aid in Somalia, with most residents now resorting to IDP camps due to Al-Shabaab attacks and ravaging drought. The drought has displaced thousands of people.

So far, over 7 million Somalis are starting to starve, with the country calling for the international community to chip in and assist. Al-Shabaab militants have also been destroying water wells across the country, making it difficult for the population to access clean water for drinking.

Somalia's UN envoy, Abukar Dahir Osman, stated that the UN's goal should be to safeguard the country's territorial integrity. "It's essential to create an environment capable of advancing the government's efforts to achieve the country's political stability, security, and sustainable development," Mr. Osman said.

UNSOM has been coordinating humanitarian activities in Somalia and through it, many lives have been changed. Ambassador Jeffrey DeLaurentis, the Senior Advisor for Security Council Affairs, said the mandate renewal was integral for Somalia to achieve its short-term goals.

"This is a crucial time for Somalia, and we believe this mandate will further UNSOM's efforts to support the Somali Federal Government as it addresses serious challenges, including responding to an unprecedented drought, reconciliation among the National Government and Federal Member States, completing the review of the Federal Constitution, and achieving debt relief."

Resolution 2657 was adopted by a vote of 14 in favour to none against, with one abstention, China. Somalia is a major beneficiary of humanitarian assistance with the country depending heavily on foreign aid to run the government, which is also struggling for stability due to internal wrangles and the Al-Shabaab menace.

GAROWE ONLINE