The UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) closed its operations on 31 October 2024, and was succeeded by the UN Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) as of Friday, 1 November, in line with the UN Security Council’s resolution 2753.
The change reflects the progress in the country and is also in line with the request of the Federal Government of Somalia for a two-year transition of UNSOM’s functions to the United Nations Country Team by October 2026.
While the new UNTMIS website and social media platforms are being finalized, relevant UNTMIS communications will be available here:
03 Aug 2024 - Mogadishu – The United Nations in Somalia strongly condemns the terrorist attack at Lido Beach in Mogadishu last night, reportedly killing at least 32 people and injuring many more.
The United Nations in Somalia expresses its deepest condolences to the families of the victims and wishes a speedy recovery for the injured.
13 Jul 2024 - (As delivered)
Mr. President, honourable members of the cabinet, members of the press,
Good afternoon.
I am pleased to be back in Garowe today.
I thank President Said Abdullahi Deni and his administration for the warm welcome extended to me and my colleagues.
19 Jun 2024 - Mogadishu – On the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, the United Nations in Somalia today called for enhanced protection for healthcare professionals and humanitarian workers who provide critical services to survivors of conflict-related sexual violence.
15 Jun 2024 - Mogadishu – The United Nations in Somalia extends its warm wishes to all Somalis as they celebrate the special occasion of Eid al-Adha.
“On behalf of the entire United Nations family in Somalia, I wish you all a peaceful and joyous Eid Al-Adha,” said the UN Secretary-General’s Acting Special Representative for Somalia, James Swan.
06 Jun 2024 - Mogadishu – The United Nations in Somalia congratulates the Somali government and people on their country's election today to a seat on the UN Security Council for 2025-2026.
“Somalia has come a long way over the past three decades on its path to peace, prosperity, and security. Election to a seat on the Security Council is recognition of that commendable progress,” said the UN Secretary-General’s Acting Special Representative for Somalia, James Swan.
26 May 2024 - Mogadishu – The Acting Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Somalia and Head of the UN Assistance Mission for Somalia (UNSOM), James Swan, arrived in Mogadishu today.
Mr. Swan’s focus will be to support the Federal Government of Somalia and the Somali people to advance their peace, security, development and state-building priorities.
18 May 2024 - Edited for clarity
It's been wonderful to be in Puntland for my fifth and final farewell visit to say goodbye to President Deni and his team, and I'm particularly grateful to President Deni for taking time out of his retreat.
12 May 2024 - As delivered.
Good afternoon again, Excellency, Mr. President.
It is such a great pleasure to be in Galmudug and thank you so much to you and your team for a very warm welcome to myself and to my UN team.
I am on my final stint for my assignment in Somalia and it's a busy time but I really wanted to come in person to Galmudug for a few reasons.
09 May 2024 - Dear members of the press,
Ladies and gentlemen,
Good morning and thank you for coming.
I am happy to be back here, and I wish to thank the Government of the Federal Republic of Somalia for accepting my request to visit and the excellent cooperation extended to me during the visit.
03 May 2024 - Mogadishu – Marking World Press Freedom Day, the United Nations in Somalia highlighted the important work Somali journalists carry out in reporting on the climate challenges facing their country and encouraged increased coverage.