BAIDOA, Somalia – In a landmark moment for humanitarian governance in Somalia, the South West State of Somalia officially launched the Safeguarding Humanitarian Assistance Law today in Baidoa on 9th Feb 2025. This groundbreaking legislation is the first of its kind in Somalia, setting a legal framework to ensure transparency, accountability, and the protection of humanitarian aid from diversion and misuse.
The law, which was approved by the South West State Cabinet on December 16, 2024, and later endorsed by the South West State Assembly on December 28, 2024, represents a pioneering step toward fostering an open and enabling environment for humanitarian actors. At a time when global funding for humanitarian aid is shrinking, this initiative stands as a bold commitment to strengthening the effectiveness of aid delivery to the most vulnerable communities.
A Milestone for Humanitarian Protection in Somalia
The enactment of the Safeguarding Humanitarian Assistance Law addresses a long-standing challenge in Somalia, where humanitarian aid has often been susceptible to mismanagement and corruption. By criminalizing the diversion of humanitarian assistance, establishing independent oversight mechanisms, and enforcing strict compliance measures, this law ensures that aid reaches those who need it most.
The law includes critical provisions such as:
o Transparency & Accountability by ensuring public access to information on aid distribution, funding sources, and beneficiaries.
o Prevention of Aid Diversion through Criminalizing the misuse, sale, or obstruction of humanitarian assistance.
o Strengthening Coordination by establishing a Committee for Safeguarding Humanitarian Assistance to oversee aid distribution and monitor compliance.
o Protection of Victims & Witnesses through ensuring safety and confidentiality for whistleblowers and those affected by aid mismanagement.
o Capacity Building & Local Involvement by encouraging the participation of local organizations in aid implementation.
A Testament to Leadership & Commitment
This achievement is a direct reflection of H.E President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen’s strong leadership and his administration’s dedication to improving governance and service delivery. His committed cabinet, in particular the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, played a crucial role in making this law a reality.
Special recognition goes to Minister Arush, whose tireless efforts in engaging key stakeholders and ensuring broad consultations were instrumental in shaping the law. The collaborative efforts between government institutions, humanitarian actors, and local civil society organizations have resulted in a policy that will enhance the effectiveness of aid delivery while deterring corruption and inefficiency.
An Eye-Opener for Federal and Other Federal Member States (FMSs)
The successful adoption of this law in South West State sets a precedent for other Federal Member States (FMSs) and the Federal Government of Somalia to follow. If implemented nationwide, it could significantly improve Somalia’s overall humanitarian governance framework.
From Law to Action: A Collective Responsibility
While the launching of this law marks a significant victory, its success depends on collective implementation and enforcement. Humanitarian actors, government institutions, and community leaders must work hand in hand to ensure the full materialization of this law.
This historic moment in Baidoa signals a new era of transparency and accountability in humanitarian assistance in Somalia, one that ensures aid is protected, delivered effectively, and reaches the people who need it the most.
With the global humanitarian landscape becoming increasingly constrained, Somalia’s commitment to safeguarding aid resources is a step in the right direction.
A Salute to Progress
The launch of the Safeguarding Humanitarian Assistance Law is more than just a legal milestone it is a beacon of hope for humanitarian organizations, international donors, and, most importantly, the millions of Somalis who rely on humanitarian aid for survival.
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The author is a Humanitarian & Development Professional | Disaster Risk Resilience & Climate Change Adaptation Advocate and can be reached at alimak_klay@yahoo.com
