MOGADISHU — Britain’s Minister for Development and Africa, Kirsty McNeill, has urged Somalia’s political leaders to overcome their differences through dialogue and work toward a broad national agreement on the country’s political future.
McNeill made the remarks during a visit to Mogadishu, where she met Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Tuesday. Their discussions focused on Somalia’s political situation, security challenges and the country’s wider efforts to strengthen stability.
The British minister emphasized the importance of inclusive political dialogue and consensus-building, urging Somalia’s federal government, opposition groups and federal member states to work together on issues affecting the country’s future.
Her appeal comes amid renewed political tensions in Somalia, with disagreements between the federal government and opposition politicians, as well as disputes involving some federal member states over elections, constitutional reforms, the distribution of political powers and the country’s broader political roadmap.
McNeill stressed that resolving these disputes through peaceful political engagement would be essential to maintaining national unity and creating a stable environment for Somalia’s development.
The UK also highlighted the connection between political stability and Somalia’s ongoing security transition. As Somali security forces assume greater responsibility for national security, continued political cooperation and clear coordination among the country’s institutions will be important for sustaining progress and maintaining international support.
During her visit, McNeill also toured a World Food Programme (WFP) warehouse in Mogadishu, where she inspected humanitarian supplies destined for communities affected by drought, food insecurity and other humanitarian challenges.
The visit underscored the UK’s continued involvement in Somalia, including support for humanitarian assistance, development, governance and security.
Britain remains one of Somalia’s key international partners and has repeatedly called for greater political cooperation among Somali leaders, arguing that a unified political process is critical to strengthening state institutions, improving security and supporting long-term economic development.
The latest appeal comes at a sensitive time for Somalia, as political disagreements risk diverting attention from major national priorities, including security, constitutional implementation, economic development, humanitarian needs and preparations for future elections.
