MOGADISHU, (HAN) — The Federal Government of Somalia has officially announced the closure of the long-standing United Nations office in Mogadishu, marking the end of more than three decades of UN political and logistical presence in the country. The office, which once held significant influence over Somalia’s political and security affairs, is set to close permanently in October 2026.
The move effectively ends the mandate of UNTMIS (United Nations Transition Mission in Somalia), which has been operational since 2024. It also signifies the dissolution of the influential C6+ group, a coalition of international partners that for years played a key role in shaping Somalia’s governance and stabilization policies.
Somalia’s relationship with the United Nations has passed through several key phases since the early 1990s, as the UN adapted its missions to the country’s changing security and political conditions:
1. UNOSOM I (1992–1993) – Established to monitor a ceasefire during the height of Somalia’s civil war.
2. UNITAF (1992–1993) – A U.S.-led multinational force authorized to create a secure environment for humanitarian relief.
3. UNOSOM II (1993–1995) – Expanded mission with a nation-building mandate, which ended after severe security setbacks.
4. UNPOS (1995–2013) – The United Nations Political Office for Somalia, focused on political reconciliation and governance.
5. UNSOM (2013–2014) – Replaced UNPOS with a mandate to support the Federal Government in peacebuilding and state formation.
6. UNSOS (2015–2025) – Provided logistical and operational support to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).
7. UNTMIS (2024–2026) – The transitional mission overseeing the final phase of UN operations in Somalia.
The Somali government’s decision to end the UN’s mission comes amid growing calls for full sovereignty and national ownership of state institutions. Officials in Mogadishu say the country is now capable of managing its own security, governance, and development priorities without heavy international oversight.
The closure of the UN office in 2026 will mark a historic turning point, ending more than 34 years of continuous UN involvement in Somalia’s internal affairs.
