The Deputy Secretary noted that further details regarding the allegations against Somalia’s UN Representative will be released.

Abukar Baalle has been facing pressure and investigations from the United States ever since he opposed the recognition of Somaliland. Recently, the world’s richest person, Elon Musk, called for the UN to remove Somalia’s Representative.

The ongoing investigation concerns the alleged embezzlement of U.S. government funds, which could lead to a court case.

Various individuals have commented on the issue of Somaliland’s recognition.

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The extremist group has also escalated attacks inside Mogadishu, launching a series of deadly mortar bombardments and bombings that have raised fears among residents and exposed vulnerabilities in the city’s security apparatus.

Amid this deepening crisis, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud last week proposed a national platform to unite federal government institutions, regional states, and opposition groups in the fight against terrorism.

However, the initiative has yet to materialize, and political divisions remain stark — with at least two Federal Member States reportedly refusing to recognize his administration, which critics say is increasingly isolated in Mogadishu.

In response, Somalia’s international partners have welcomed the president’s call for a unified political and community platform, urging Somali leaders to take swift and coordinated action against the militant threat.

“A unified and inclusive strategy is indispensable to achieving success against Al-Shabaab and advancing Somalia’s state-building priorities,” said a joint statement released by Somalia’s international partners on 7 April.

“We urge the Government, Federal Member State leaders, and political and societal stakeholders to meet expeditiously to ensure a unified, effective response to the ongoing Al-Shabaab offensive.”

The partners — including the African Union, United Nations, United States, European Union, and neighboring countries — also commended the Somali Security Forces and the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission (AUSSOM) for their efforts in countering Al-Shabaab’s recent advances in Lower and Middle Shabelle regions.

“We remain steadfast in support of the government and people of Somalia as they strive to build a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous nation,” the statement added.

As the militant threat grows closer to Mogadishu, many observers warn that Somalia’s political impasse and lack of coordinated leadership could embolden Al-Shabaab unless urgent action is taken.

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The report underscores the risks of further destabilization in the country and the unrestricted access to weapons and ammunition for armed militias and militant fighters.

The United Nations Security Council had voted in November of last year to maintain the arms embargo on Somalia, despite strong objections from the Somali government. The Security Council’s decision was based on the assessment that al-Shabab continues to pose a serious threat to peace and stability in the region, emphasizing the need for sanctions to degrade its activities.

Executive Summary
This report presents an in-depth examination of the potential consequences of lifting the arms embargo in Somalia. With a focus on both the national and international implications, our findings suggest caution and a nuanced approach towards this crucial policy…

— Hiraal Institute (@HiraalInstitute) June 20, 2023

The arms embargo was initially imposed on Somalia in 1992 to stem the flow of weapons to feuding clan-based factions that had overthrown President Mohamed Siad Barre, plunging the nation into civil war. However, the weak and corrupt federal government in Mogadishu has been actively advocating for the lifting of the embargo, citing its inability to procure weapons to combat al-Shabaab.

The Hiraal Institute’s report raises concerns about the potential consequences of lifting the arms embargo, particularly regarding inter-clan conflicts. Since August 2022, the government has been promoting clan militias, and lifting the embargo could potentially trigger a volatile arms race among the clans, leading to heightened violence and increased instability.

The existence of open arms markets in Somalia further compounds the risks. The report points out that the ease of access to these markets could worsen with the lifting of the embargo, resulting in an upsurge of violence and instability. Moreover, it raises concerns about effective control and tracking of arms flow within the country.

Somalia’s intricate societal structure, characterized by deep-seated clan loyalties, presents a significant challenge in addressing these issues. The Somali National Army (SNA), primarily comprising clan militias, is currently embroiled in various clan-based conflicts across regions such as Lower Shabelle, Bakool, Puntland, and Gedo.

While the federal government is confined in Mogadishu and remains corrupt, clan-based conflicts are a recurrent feature in Somalia, often marked by violent confrontations involving small arms and anti-aircraft machine guns used by rival militias, which unfortunately lead to civilian casualties. These clan wars extend beyond internal disputes and have broader implications for Somalia’s security situation and regional stability.

Complicating matters further, the Somali government does not exercise full control over all its ports of entry. This situation heightens the risk of arms diversion to non-state actors, criminal syndicates, or potential adversaries due to the lack of comprehensive oversight.

“Without comprehensive oversight of these crucial trade nodes, the risk of arms being diverted to non-state actors, criminal syndicates, or potential adversaries is heightened,” the Hiraal Institute said.

Recent reports in local media have highlighted a troubling trend of weapons meant for the Somali army appearing in open markets, highlighting the challenges related to control and accountability. Building on these reports, the Hiraal Institute emphasizes that without robust mechanisms to secure and monitor weapons, prematurely lifting the arms embargo could lead to an increased proliferation of arms.

The report reveals that these arms bazaars cater not only to local militias or organized criminal syndicates but are accessible to anyone with sufficient financial means.

“The weapons sold in these markets range from small arms to antiaircraft cannons, all of which can significantly contribute to escalating violence and conflicts within and beyond Somalia’s borders,” the report finds.

Furthermore, the potential implications of unchecked arms flows extend beyond Somalia’s borders. The report stresses that historical lessons demonstrate how such flows can fuel conflicts, destabilize regions, and pose significant threats to international security. Considering these factors, a global perspective is crucial in shaping any decision concerning the future of the arms embargo.

The report authors conclude by emphasizing the need to prioritize strengthening Somalia’s capacity in arms control, securing ports of entry, and promoting effective governance before contemplating any significant changes to the current policy.

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The Banadiri, who have long endured dispossession, persecution, and institutionalized political marginalization, have expressed their frustration at the lack of support from the international community.

During a heated debate in Somalia’s Lower House focused on the escalating ethnic conflict in the Lower Shabelle region, lawmakers directed blame towards the United Nations and the European Union for allegedly funding certain clans that perpetuate oppression and mistreatment of marginalized communities.

A fighting in Barawe, a historic coastal town in Lower Shabelle, resulted more than 10 deaths, including civilians, on Monday. Two rival armed groups, vying for control of the city and its resources, including revenue collection checkpoints, have been engaging street battle on Monday and Tuesday.

MP Omar Sharif Jeeg, a vocal representative from the Banadiri community, strongly condemned the fighting and expressed regret as part of the international community’s role in enabling these ethnic clashes and abuses against minorities.

He highlighted the forceful displacement and seizure of land from Banadiri community members in Barawe, emphasizing the 31 years of funding support that has sustained such violations.

“The international community, i.e., UN and EU, should be ashamed of their actions,” MP Jeeg stated, calling for the Banadiri community to resist fleeing and instead acquire weapons to protect their ancestral land and resources.

‘Unarmed, lacking full economic and political rights’ in their ancestral land

Despite being the native inhabitants of Mogadishu, Marka, and Barawe, Banadiri clan members are collectively classified as members of an unarmed clan, lacking full economic and political rights even in their ancestral towns.

MP Omar Jeeg added, “Our land has been taken, our rights have been taken, and now our existence is in danger.” He expressed concern over the prolonged abuse endured by the Banadiri community while major clan members who fled Mogadishu since 1991 were able to return to their areas of origin.

MP Abdirashid Jili from Barawe strongly criticized the situation in the Lower Shabelle region, highlighting the racial targeting and killing of civilians based on their ethnicity and blamed the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) of colluding with one side of the warring groups in Barawe.

“Our stance is clear: No clan shall exert dominance over another. Barawe holds the position of capital within Southwest State, and we firmly reject any attempts by individuals from other regions, disguising themselves as government forces under the banner of their clans, to oppress and mistreat our people,” he emphasized.

He pledged to hold the perpetrators accountable and called on foreign donors to reassess their funding of projects that contribute to hostility against minority communities in Lower Shabelle.

The European Union remains a major donor to Somalia, with a significant allocation of Euro 72 million for humanitarian projects in 2023. The United Nations, on its side, asserts its commitment to supporting Somalia’s key areas of focus, including humanitarian aid, development initiatives, political stability, and security priorities.

However, Somali politicians argue that these funds disproportionately benefit powerful clans favored by the corrupt government officials, lacking sufficient accountability and further perpetuating marginalization and inequality.

“It is not helping. It only deepens the marginalization our community is facing. We urge them to reconsider their approach of funding,” MP Jeeg concluded.

Additionally, recent armed clashes involving the Darwish force, a police unit trained and equipped through joint funding from the EU, UK, and UN, have sparked anger among residents of Barawe and Bardale. These clashes have resulted in numerous casualties, including civilians, and triggered the displacement of local families.

Nur Sidow, the Minister of Petroleum of Southwest State, expressed similar outrage over the death and injury of civilians in the Lower Shabelle region. He blamed mortar shelling by the African Union Transition Mission (ATMIS), funded by the EU and UN, for the casualties in Bariire town.

The incident in Barire followed another tragic incident, as reported by UNICEF, where 22 children lost their lives due to the detonation of an unexploded remnant of war in Muraale village in Lower Shabelle last week, further intensified concerns about civilian safety.

Minister Sidow condemned the indiscriminate attacks by ATMIS on the civilian population in the Lower Shabelle region, urging accountability for the pain inflicted upon innocent civilians.

“We can not remain silent on the increasing attacks by ATMIS on the civilian population,” he told the local media on Wednesday.

The grievances expressed by Banadiri lawmakers and local officials highlight the urgent need to address marginalization, promote equality, and ensure responsible allocation of international aid to mitigate the suffering of vulnerable communities in Somalia.

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The Director-General of WHO, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, expressed his condolences and condemned the attack, which claimed the lives of at least 15 people and left 30 others injured.

The assailants, belonging to the armed group al-Shabab, conducted a six-hour siege at the Pearl Beach hotel, a popular beachside establishment in Mogadishu.

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus took to Twitter to express his grief, stating, “I’m heartbroken that we have lost a WHO staff member in the recent attack in #Mogadishu, #Somalia. My heartfelt condolences to their families and to everyone who lost a loved one. We condemn all attacks on civilians and humanitarian workers.”

I’m heartbroken that we have lost a @WHO staff member in the recent attack in #Mogadishu, #Somalia. My heartfelt condolences to their families and to everyone who lost a loved one.

We condemn all attacks on civilians and humanitarian workers.

— Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) June 11, 2023

Al-Shabab has taken responsibility for the attack, marking another violent incident following their assault on an African Union base in Bulo Marer last month, where they killed 54 Ugandan peacekeepers.

The assault at the Pearl Beach hotel has raised concerns among local residents about the effectiveness of existing security measures in preventing such attacks.

The people of Mogadishu are now demanding answers regarding the ability of the attackers to bypass heavily fortified security checkpoints and reach Liido Beach.

The Friday night attack underscores the ongoing influence of al-Shabab, despite their expulsion from major urban centers in Somalia. The extremist group continues to pose a threat, maintaining control over vast rural areas and conducting targeted attacks on both security forces and civilian targets, including within the capital city.

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The ongoing conflict between the breakaway Somaliland and the opposing militia has resulted in a dire humanitarian situation, with civilian casualties and mass displacement.

“The members of the Security Council called for the immediate withdrawal of “Somaliland” security forces and called on all parties to exercise restraint and to refrain from provocative actions, incitement to violence and inflammatory rhetoric,” the strong statement read.

Expressing deep concern about the violence and its consequences, the Security Council emphasized the need for all parties involved to exercise restraint, refrain from provocative actions, and engage in peaceful dialogue to de-escalate the situation. They stressed the importance of rebuilding trust and creating the conditions necessary for lasting peace in the region.

In their statement, the Security Council reaffirmed their unwavering support for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, political independence, and unity of Somalia. They acknowledged the efforts of the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS), Ethiopia, and clan elders in securing a ceasefire and promoting an inclusive national dialogue. The Council urged all parties to urgently reach a ceasefire agreement and encouraged inclusive dialogue for peaceful dispute resolution.

The Security Council expressed deep concern for the large number of civilian casualties and the displacement of over 150,000 people in Laascaanood and the Sool region of Northern Somalia. They extended their sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.

The Council condemned the violent clashes between Somaliland security forces and the clan militia, emphasizing their condemnation of all acts of violence against civilians. They further condemned the civilian casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure resulting from the conflict.

In their statement, the Security Council reminded all parties of their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law. They called for accountability for those responsible for violations of international humanitarian law and human rights abuses.

The humanitarian situation in Laascaanood and the Sool region was also a matter of concern for the Security Council. They highlighted the need for all parties to allow and facilitate the rapid and unhindered provision of humanitarian assistance in accordance with international law and the United Nations guiding principles of humanitarian emergency assistance.

Additionally, the Security Council urged all donors to increase their humanitarian assistance to ensure the provision of aid and essential support to affected populations. They also called for access to explosive ordnance disposal teams to facilitate the removal of explosive remnants in the region.

The UN Security Council’s statement emphasizes the urgency of resolving the conflict in Laascaanood, urging all parties involved to prioritize peace, dialogue, and respect for human rights.

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Chagutah states, “The housing challenge extends beyond the mere lack of physical houses in urban areas. It also encompasses the provision of decent and affordable housing, enabling individuals from all income brackets to access safe and adequate living conditions.”

Amnesty International calls on the assembly to urge governments to develop time-bound strategies that explore all viable options, including in-situ upgrading of informal settlements, in order to achieve adequate housing for all and to leave no one behind. With the global urban population on the rise, governments must take urgent measures to ensure that towns and cities possess sufficient housing and sanitation infrastructure.

“Delegates gathering in Nairobi must renew their collaborative efforts to realize the right to housing in urban areas. People living in poverty often have no choice but to reside in highly inadequate housing within informal settlements, which also poses health risks. Furthermore, many individuals face forced evictions and homelessness,” urges Chagutah.

Governments are urged to invest in social housing, slum upgrading, water and sanitation programs in urban informal settlements, as well as to undertake environmentally sustainable, inclusive, transformative, productive, and equitable urban renewal initiatives.

Address issues of sustainable urban development

The second United Nations Habitat Assembly is scheduled to take place from 5 to 9 June 2023 at the headquarters of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme in Nairobi, Kenya. The assembly aims to address issues of sustainable urban development amidst challenges such as pandemics, conflicts, climate change, and economic uncertainty.

According to the World Bank, approximately 51% of Africa’s urban population, comprising 500 million people, reside in slums. Experts predict that Africa’s urban population will increase to 57% by 2050, underscoring the urgent need for Sub-Saharan African governments to reevaluate their housing strategies and prioritize informal settlements.

The UN reports that the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath have hindered progress towards achieving the right to housing. Reduced domestic and foreign spending, decreased government investment in social programs (including sanitation and social housing in urban informal settlements), and the mounting debt burden in Sub-Saharan Africa have exacerbated the situation, impeding public investment in housing.

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In a statement on Thursday, the UN Secretary-General’s Deputy Special Representative for Somalia, Anita Kiki Gbeho expressed her message to the Somalis in this special period of joy.

Muslims around the globe will be celebrating the Eid al-Fitr festive on Friday which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

“As we come to the end of the holy month of Ramadan, the United Nations wishes a peaceful and safe Eid-al-Fitr to the people of Somalia as they celebrate this special period of togetherness,” said the UN Secretary-General’s Deputy Special Representative for Somalia, Anita Kiki Gbeho.

“The values which underpin Ramadan – from reflection to reconciliation, from charity to solidarity – also underpin Somalia’s progress and are shared by the United Nations,” she added. “We remain committed to supporting Somalis as they advance with their national priorities. Ciid Wanaagsan.”

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Dear members of the press,

I am happy to be back in Somalia, six years after my first visit as Secretary-General, not to mention the many visits as High Commissioner for Refugees during more than 10 years.

And I want to thank President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and the Government for the warm welcome I enjoyed.

This is – above all – a visit of solidarity.

Every year during the Holy Month of Ramadan, I have the honour of visiting a Muslim country.

And today, I am happy to continue this tradition here in Somalia, and to fast with you in solidarity.

And I wish to thank everyone for allowing me to join in this special time, and I look forward to later sharing an Iftar, invited by His Excellency the President with a group of distinguished guests.

The President and I discussed the government’s valuable efforts to tackle terrorism and advance peace and security for everyone.

And we underlined the importance of an ever-stronger collaboration between the Federal Government and States.

Federal and State authorities can count on our support for further advanced state-building, and we are particularly encouraged by the recent agreement that was established in relation to the different matters of power sharing.

And I am also here to ring the alarm on the need of massive international support, massive international support because of the humanitarian difficulties the country is facing, massive humanitarian support in relation to the build-up of a security capacity of Somalia, and massive humanitarian support in stabilisation and development of the country.

Somalia is experiencing its worst series of five years of drought in recorded history, and I hope that the rain that is coming will persist and will help address the very challenging situation that has been created in the country by drought.

And although Somalis make virtually no contribution to climate change – as a matter of fact, Somalia contributes 0.003 percent to the emissions that cause climate change – although Somalis make virtually no contribution to climate change, the Somalis are among the greatest victims.

Nearly five million people are experiencing high levels of acute food insecurity.

And of course, rising prices make matters worse.

So I call on donors and I call on the international community to step up their support:

To urgently fund the 2023 Humanitarian Response Plan, which is currently just 15 percent funded, Somali people deserve the solidarity of the international community.

And deserve it to prevent malnutrition and displacement;

To save lives, to avert famine.

But also to be able to launch a new process of stabilisation and development in the country and to build up its capacities to fight Al-Shabaab with even more efficiency than in the recent past.

Dear friends,

Somalia embodies Ramadan’s timeless message of renewal and hope.

In these challenging times, I want to commend your energy and resilience and reiterate the United Nations’ unwavering support.

We stand in solidarity with the Somali people and the Somali Government – for peace, for security and for sustainable development.

Ramadan Mubarak, Ramadan Wanaagsan!

Thank you.

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