KISMAYO, Somalia — James Swan, the Acting UN Special Representative for Somalia, concluded his visit to Jubaland on October 13, 2024, where he engaged in high-level discussions with President Ahmed Mohamed Islam ‘Madobe’ and his cabinet.
The visit, aimed at addressing a spectrum of local and national issues, underscored the UN’s commitment to support Somalia’s Federal Member States, particularly in the context of the evolving security situation and humanitarian needs.
Swan’s discussions in Kismayo, the interim capital of Jubaland, centered on the upcoming transition phase of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and the critical importance of this process for both security and the well-being of the local population.
The meeting also touched upon the political situation, with a specific focus on Jubaland’s stance on the National Consultative Council (NCC) and the electoral process, reflecting the complex internal dynamics of Somalia’s politics.
The UN envoy emphasized 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,” stated Mary Otieno, the Country Representative ad interim of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), who accompanied Swan.
Swan’s delegation included representatives from key UN entities based in Jubaland, highlighting the multifaceted support provided by the United Nations, ranging from humanitarian aid to development projects. This visit not only reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to the stability and development of Jubaland but also to Somalia at large.
The discussions took place amidst a backdrop of political tension, with President Madobe’s recent withdrawal from a national meeting in Mogadishu, signaling internal disagreements over governance and electoral processes. However, the closed-door talks with Swan suggest a continued dialogue aimed at finding common ground for stability and progress.
Swan’s visit to Jubaland is part of his broader engagement strategy with Somalia’s Federal Member States, aiming to foster a cohesive approach to addressing Somalia’s complex challenges. “All of these factors will help ensure that the voices of the Jubaland people are heard and that they can receive the kinds of services that they merit,” Swan remarked, highlighting the importance of inclusive governance and service delivery.
This visit marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts by the UN to support Somalia’s path towards stability, peace, and development, emphasizing the role of international cooperation in navigating the region’s volatile political and security landscape.
