Dhusamareb – Continuing his first round of visits to Somalia’s Federal Member State, the Acting UN Special Representative James Swan today visited Galmudug, where he met with President Ahmed Abdi Karie ‘Qoor Qoor’ and several of this State’s ministers. 

Discussions covered a wide range of topics, from security, rule of law and good governance to humanitarian and development issues, as well as more locally-focused matters.

“First of all, I want to express the deep concern of the United Nations in Somalia in regard to the recent serious clan violence in some areas of Galmudug. We extend our condolences to the bereaved,” said Mr. Swan. 

“I commend President Ahmed for his swift action to establish a regional ministerial mediation committee to help resolve the conflict,” he added. “We urge that this, and any other reconciliation measures that may be helpful, be employed to resolve these conflicts as soon as possible.”

The Acting UN Special Representative was speaking at a joint press media encounter with President Kariye, after their meeting. 

The top UN official noted that Presidenty Karie’s security priority remained to counter Al-Shabaab, and successfully conclude earlier initiatives undertaken by Galmudug authorities to this end. 

“I acknowledge the great challenge of rebuilding communities that were previously under the control of Al-Shabaab. We note the precarious humanitarian situation that weighs on this state. The UN family remains engaged to support the government in helping affected communities,” said Mr. Swan. 

Strong collaboration 

Mr. Swan travelled to Galmudug together with Charles Mballa, Representative of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and Massimo Nicoletti Altimeri, the Officer-in-Charge of the United Nations Development Programme operation in Somalia.

“Our travel together underscores the integrated efforts of the UN system in Somalia to provide support to the government and people of Galmudug,” stressed Mr. Swan. 

UN agencies, funds and programmes are active in Galmudug, providing support to communities, households and internally displaced populations thorough a variety of interventions such as cash-for-work, agricultural training, provision of safe water and sanitation facilities, and civic education. 

 Another area of progress is related to a Somali-led initiative aimed at enhancing police forces’ capabilities. The Joint Police Programme is developed with Federal Member States’ Ministries of Internal Security to train and equip police, engage in security sector reform, and ensure accountable governance. 

“The UN in Somalia is pleased with the effective partnership with Galmudug State in advancing police development through collaborative efforts in the Joint Police Programme. We look forward to building upon this productive partnership,” said Mr. Swan.  

Discussions with Galmudug’s leadership also touched on Somalia’s constitutional review process and plans for elections. 

The Acting UN Special Representative acknowledged the role played by President Kariye in supporting these national processes, and noted that they ought to be consultative and inclusive to maximize prospects for successful implementation. 

“Let me reiterate the UN's commitment to support Galmudug in its state- and peace-building priorities, and to thank the President and his government for their strong collaboration in our work together,” Mr. Swan said.

The top UN official previously visited Somalia’s Jubaland State. 

James Swan was appointed to his current position by the UN Secretary-General António Guterres on 14 May 2024. He previously served as the the UN chief’s Special Representative for Somalia and Head of UNSOM from 2019 to 2022.