UN ends 30-year political mission in Somalia as country takes on recovery

The United Nations has officially closed its political mission in Somalia after more than three decades of involvement, the UN Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) announced, according to Al Jazeera English.

The closure follows a two-year transition period requested by the Somali government, with responsibilities being transferred to Somali institutions, UN agencies, and the UN office supporting African Union troops, as reported by Al Jazeera English and UN News.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres acknowledged Somalia's progress but emphasized the need for continued international support due to ongoing political, security, and humanitarian challenges, according to Al Jazeera English.

Somalia's Deputy Prime Minister described the closure as a "day of victory," signaling the end of the transition era. However, the country still faces political divisions, strained regional relations, and continued violence from armed groups like al-Shabab, Al Jazeera English noted.

UN officials highlighted the mission's role in supporting Somalia's recovery from civil war and rebuilding governance structures. The UN's Deputy Special Representative for Somalia noted that while challenges remain, Somalia has made considerable progress since the early 1990s, according to UN News.

With the mission's end, Somali institutions are now fully responsible for the country's recovery, supported by UN agencies already operating in the country, as stated by UN News.