Kismayo – The Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in Somalia Nicholas Kay met with the leadership of the Interim Juba Administration (IJA) in Kismayo and discussed progress on Vision 2016.

SRSG Kay was welcomed by the IJA leader Mr. Ahmed Mohamed Islam Madobe, cabinet members and the IJA constitutional committee.

The meeting comes at a time when the international community is encouraging dialogue and peaceful resolution of the current disagreement between the IJA and the central government over the constitution of the IJA Assembly. Partners have called on both the central government and the IJA administration to resolve any disagreements amicably in order to avoid losing the gains made so far in the state formation process.

Speaking after the meeting, SRSG Kay said that “the discussions were fruitful, focusing on the progress so far towards attainment of Vision 2016. There has been significant progress here with the IJA administration, key steps taken towards establishing structures and we are keen to see that that is not lost”.

IJA leader Madobe thanked SRSG Kay for the support offered by the UN. “We thank the SRSG for this visit and the continued support. We had good discussions,” he said.

SRSG Kay also met AMISOM Sector Commander Brig. Daniel Bartonjo who briefed him on the security situation in the region as well as the ongoing effort to boost the capacity of the Somali security forces.