James Swan, the Acting UN Special Representative for Somalia, wrapped up his visit to Jubaland on October 13, 2024, after holding high-level meetings with President Ahmed Mohamed Islam ‘Madobe’ and his cabinet.
The visit, focused on a range of local and national issues, highlighted the UN’s ongoing commitment to supporting Somalia’s Federal Member States amid evolving security concerns and humanitarian needs.
During discussions in Kismayo, Jubaland’s interim capital, Swan and the Jubaland leadership addressed the upcoming transition of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). They underscored the importance of this phase in maintaining security and ensuring the well-being of local communities.
Swan’s talks also delved into the political landscape, particularly Jubaland’s stance on the National Consultative Council (NCC) and the electoral process, reflecting the intricate dynamics of Somalia’s political scene.
The UN envoy stressed the need for strong collaboration between international bodies and local authorities. “We cannot achieve the huge mandates of the UN and of the government of Somalia without us working together,” emphasized Mary Otieno, the Country Representative ad interim of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), who accompanied Swan on the visit.
Swan’s delegation included representatives from various UN agencies operating in Jubaland, emphasizing the breadth of support the UN provides, from humanitarian aid to development initiatives. The visit reinforced the UN’s commitment to both Jubaland’s stability and Somalia’s broader development goals.
The discussions came against a backdrop of political tension, as President Madobe recently withdrew from a national meeting in Mogadishu, highlighting internal disagreements over governance and electoral matters. However, the closed-door meeting between Swan and Madobe signals ongoing efforts to find common ground for stability and progress.
Swan’s visit is part of a broader UN engagement strategy with Somalia’s Federal Member States, aiming to promote a unified approach to the country’s complex challenges. “Ensuring the voices of the Jubaland people are heard and that they receive the services they deserve is crucial,” Swan noted, emphasizing the importance of inclusive governance and effective service delivery.
This visit marks a significant step in the UN’s ongoing efforts to support Somalia’s journey towards stability, peace, and development, showcasing the critical role of international cooperation in navigating the country’s complex political and security landscape.
