Kismayo – The Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (DSRSG) for Somalia, Fatiha Serour, paid an official visit to Kismayo on 6 November, where she met with Ahmed Mohamed Islam Madobe, Leader of the Interim Jubba Administration (IJA).

While in Kismayo, DSRSG Serour commended Mr. Madobe on the progress his administration had made on political reconciliation, and urged him to continue the process through inclusive dialogue. Hailing it as a remarkable initiative towards reconciliation, she acknowledged IJA's efforts towards garnering greater unity and resilience in the Jubbas.

During DSRSG Serour's visit, her last before the end of her term in Somalia, discussions focused on the New Deal, the reconciliation process within the IJA and, strategic ways in which to reintegrate former militias.

She welcomed Mr Madobe’s decision to take part in the High-Level Partnership Forum in Copenhagen on 19-20 November. She said that that would include his administration in a nationwide initiative for peace-building and state-formation throughout Somalia.

Finally, the DSRSG reiterated UNSOM’s commitment to support for the IJA, including in the areas of political reconciliation and disarmament, demobilization and reintegration.