Madam President, Distinguished Members of the Council, Thank you for the operations and ideological narrative. The Somalia Security Forces, reinforced by the use of local militias, have conducted successful operations against Al-Shabaab in Hirshabelle and Galmudug States. Operations are expected to gradually move into other areas of Somalia.
Consolidating gains in the newly recovered areas will require strong linkages between military operations and stabilization initiatives, comprised of reconciliation and justice components and aimed at bolstering good governance and service delivery. In this regard, and in line with Somalia’s National Stabilization Strategy, efforts have focused on supporting communities and newly established district authorities in several recovered areas.
In parallel, the Government continues efforts towards generating forces, to gradually assume security responsibilities in line with the Somali transition plan. The handover of the ATMIS Maslah camp to the Somali National Army in mid-January was an important step in this process, having paved the way for the handover of such camps in future. However, funding remains a critical challenge. I reiterate previous calls by the Secretary-General to ensure predictable and sustainable funding to ATMIS and adequate resourcing for Somali security forces. This remains vital to the security transition.
Madam President,
With five consecutive poor rainy seasons, the current drought is unprecedented in its severity. Humanitarian needs continue to steadily rise, with about 8.3 million people – nearly half of Somalia’s estimated population – requiring assistance and protection in 2023. Needs are also more pronounced with minorities and marginalized groups.
Thanks to the generous donor support, Government efforts, and local community initiatives, humanitarian organizations scaled up response and reached 7.3 million people in 2022. While famine has been prevented for now, famine remains a threat if the April to June rains underperform as forecast and humanitarian assistance is not sustained. The 2023 Humanitarian Response Plan, launched on 8 February, seeks $2.6 billion to meet the priority needs of 7.6 million people. I urge donors to stand with Somalia at this difficult time by providing the required resources early.
Madam President,
Despite great adversity, the people of Somalia continue to demonstrate strength, resilience, and resolve.
The progress made by the Federal Government of Somalia to advance peace, security, and development, has generated a positive momentum to enable further advances in the state building agenda. At the core of this agenda lies the completion of an inclusive and consensus based constitutional review process. This remains a priority in the period ahead.
As the United Nations, we stand ready to support with these efforts and as always, to support Somalia in implementing its vision of a secure, stable, and peaceful nation.
I thank you.
