“To capitalize on this opportunity, federal and State authorities must collaborate closely to achieve progress on the new government’s goals, including improving governance and justice, effectively countering Al-Shabaab, and responding urgently to the worsening humanitarian crisis,” he said.

Somalia’s electoral process concluded on 15 May after Parliament voted in Hassan Sheikh Mohamud as President.  The Prime Minister and Cabinet were endorsed in June and August, respectively.

Spectre of famine

Somalia currently is facing a humanitarian crisis, brought on by the worst drought in at least 40 years. Some 7.8 million people, nearly half the population, are affected, and some areas are already at risk of famine.

Although the number of people reached by humanitarians has quadrupled since January to 5.3 million, a further scale-up in aid is needed. 

Swan called for all parties in Somalia to facilitate humanitarian access, and for donors to increase funding.

In June, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) released $350 million in development funding for Somalia.  Other donors also have resumed budgetary support so the country can sustain required reform efforts to complete the debt relief process.

The Special Envoy concluded his remarks by reiterating the UN’s commitment to continue supporting the Somali government and people in achieving their national goals. (ILKHA)