President Hassan Sheikh meets UN acting special representative for Somalia

Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud welcomed the United Nations’ Acting Special Representative for Somalia, James Swan.

The meeting, held at the President’s office, aimed to further enhance the close partnership between the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) and the United Nations in critical areas, including humanitarian, peace, and security.

James Swan was re-appointed to the UN mission in Somalia by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres after two years of absence marking a crucial period for Somalia, a country undergoing a stabilisation process.

The meeting with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud comes at a time when Somalia is grappling with a myriad of challenges, including the worst drought in four decades, which has left about 7.8 million Somalis affected and more than 1 million displaced.

The UN, under Swan’s leadership, has been actively involved in supporting the federal and state governments in addressing these severe water shortages and drought conditions, among other humanitarian and development priorities.

The UN’s role in Somalia is crucial, particularly in the areas of peace, security, and development. The collaboration between the FGS and the UN is expected to play a significant role in Somalia’s journey towards stability and prosperity.