Somalia Embraces UN’s Move for UNSOM Transformation
MOGADISHU, Somalia – Somalia has given the green light to a resolution from the United Nations Security Council to transform the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) into a temporary mission. This change offers the nation a vital opportunity to evaluate and strengthen its internal institutions during the ongoing transition.
As of yesterday, Somalia embarks on a fresh chapter aimed at assessing achievements and closing gaps. The nation is working tirelessly to find its footing after decades of political tumults and unrest. The Horn of Africa’s journey towards stability is a long haul.
The approval for initiating the United Nations Transitional Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS), passed by the Security Council on Wednesday, signifies a key change. This mission replaces UNSOM, which took root in 2013 to bolster Somalia’s leap towards democratic governance and adherence to legal principles.
UNTMIS’s blueprint envisions transferring UNSOM’s duties to Somalia’s Federal Government and affiliated local UN entities by October 31, 2026. Though Somalia leans heavily on external powers for a balanced state, these missions are crucial for maintaining calm.
The Somali government, via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed optimism, emphasizing this transition period will afford the country sufficient leeway to wind down UNSOM progressively. Such a phase-out is expected to be pivotal in revamping Somalia’s domestic systems.
This substantial proposal, outlined in August by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, stemmed from extensive dialogues between Somali authorities and UNSOM’s joint technical working group.
“This diplomatic stride represents a unified vision between the United Nations and Somalia to cultivate a peaceful and sustainable nation. It positions Somalia to helm its own national agenda and emerge as a formidable global ally,” declared the Somali Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Furthermore, Somalia is also disentangling itself from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), which will evolve into the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), set to begin operations in January 2025.
Reported by AXADLETM
