The United Nations has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Somalia beyond the end of its political mission in the country, with the United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) scheduled to conclude on October 31, 2026.
UN Secretary-General’s spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said the mission’s two-year transition period would formally end on that date, in accordance with resolutions adopted by the UN Security Council.
He explained that the decision followed a request from Somalia’s federal government and was consistent with a transition roadmap jointly developed by Mogadishu and the United Nations.
Under the transition plan, UNTMIS responsibilities have gradually been transferred to Somali government institutions and other UN agencies, funds and programmes operating in the country.
The process is intended to strengthen national ownership of Somalia’s peacebuilding and state-building efforts while allowing the UN to continue providing assistance through other channels.
The Secretary-General welcomed the progress Somalia has made in peace and security over recent decades and commended the resilience of its people as they continue to confront the country’s political, security and humanitarian challenges.
Although UNTMIS is coming to an end, the United Nations said its wider engagement with Somalia would continue.
The organisation plans to work with the federal government, the African Union and other international partners to support peace, stability, human rights and sustainable development.
The Secretary-General also urged the international community to maintain its assistance to Somalia, stressing the importance of safeguarding gains already achieved and advancing inclusive political dialogue, reconciliation and stronger public institutions.
The UN acknowledged that Somalia continues to face significant political, security, humanitarian and development challenges, making sustained international cooperation important as the country works to consolidate stability and strengthen governance.
Dujarric also conveyed the Secretary-General’s gratitude to the special representatives and Somali and international personnel who have served in UNTMIS and its predecessor missions.
He paid particular tribute to UN staff members who lost their lives while supporting peace efforts in Somalia.
The mission’s closure marks the end of a specific phase of the UN’s political engagement, rather than the termination of its broader partnership with Somalia.
The organisation said it remained committed to supporting the Somali people and locally led efforts to build a peaceful, stable and prosperous future.