New UN Mission in Somalia Begins to Promote Self-Reliance

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) launched its operations on Friday, signaling a shift towards greater Somali autonomy under UN support, following the closure of the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM), a UN official confirmed.

James Swan, the Acting Special Representative for Somalia appointed by the UN Secretary-General, emphasized the UN's dedication to aiding Somalia in its path toward a stable and self-sufficient future. "We look forward to working together as partners throughout this planned two-year transitional mission," he stated from Mogadishu, highlighting the mission's focus on enhancing Somalia's self-reliance.

The creation of UNTMIS was authorized by UN Security Council Resolution 2753 (2024), passed in response to a direct request from the Somali government for a mission that better addresses the nation's current needs.

From the outset, UNTMIS will progressively hand over responsibilities to local entities, including Somali institutions and the UN country team, aiming for a sustainable transfer of functions.

Key focus areas for UNTMIS include bolstering state-building efforts, supporting constitutional reform, and ensuring the integrity of electoral processes, alongside promoting human rights, the rule of law, and enhancing justice and security systems.

This transition is part of a broader strategy to empower Somalia, reducing dependency on international oversight while ensuring continued support where most needed.

GAROWE ONLINE