The United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) is set to cease operations on October 31, marking the end of a two-year transition process and more than three decades of UN missions supporting peacebuilding and state-building in the Horn of Africa nation. The closure follows resolutions adopted by the United Nations Security Council and a request from the Federal Government of Somalia. According to a statement issued by UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, the decision is in line with Security Council resolutions 2753 (2024) and 2809 (2025).
The mission’s exit forms part of a transition roadmap jointly developed by the Somali government and the United Nations. Under the plan, UNTMIS’s responsibilities have been transferred to Somali institutions and various UN agencies, funds and programmes. The transition is intended to strengthen Somalia’s ownership of its governance, reconciliation and development priorities, allowing national institutions to take greater responsibility for advancing peace and building effective state structures.
UN Praises Somalia’s Progress Despite Persistent Challenges
Secretary-General Guterres has commended the progress achieved in Somalia over several decades, recognising the resilience and determination of its people despite continued political instability, security threats and humanitarian difficulties. He reaffirmed that the closure of UNTMIS would not mean the end of the United Nations’ engagement with Somalia. Instead, the organisation will continue supporting the country through its resident agencies, funds and programmes, working alongside Somali authorities, the African Union and other international partners.
The continued cooperation will focus on promoting peace and stability, protecting human rights and advancing sustainable development. Guterres, however, warned that Somalia still faces significant political, security, humanitarian and economic development challenges that require sustained attention from both national leaders and the international community. He called for continued international assistance to protect the progress already achieved, strengthen public institutions and encourage inclusive political dialogue and national reconciliation.
Fight Against Al-Shabaab Remains a Priority
The UN chief also highlighted the need for continued support in addressing the threat posed by Al-Shabaab, the militant group that continues to undermine Somalia’s security. He stressed the importance of helping Somalia achieve a gradual and sustainable transition in its security arrangements while strengthening the country’s ability to manage its own security responsibilities. The transition is expected to place greater responsibility on Somali institutions while maintaining cooperation with international partners to address security threats and prevent instability from reversing previous gains.
Guterres Honours UN Personnel Who Served in Somalia
As UNTMIS prepares to close, Guterres expressed gratitude to successive UN special representatives, as well as national and international personnel who served in the mission and its predecessor operations. He acknowledged their contribution to Somalia’s peacebuilding and state-building efforts, noting that much of their work was undertaken under difficult and challenging conditions. The Secretary-General also paid tribute to UN personnel who lost their lives while serving in Somalia, recognising the sacrifices made in support of peace and stability.
UN Reaffirms Commitment to Somalia’s Future
Despite the closure of UNTMIS, the United Nations has reiterated its commitment to supporting the Somali people as the country continues working towards lasting peace, stronger institutions and sustainable development. The transition marks an important change in how the UN supports Somalia, with greater responsibility shifting to national institutions and continued assistance provided through other UN structures.
The success of the next phase will depend on Somalia’s ability to strengthen governance, sustain security gains, promote reconciliation and maintain cooperation with regional and international partners. While the mission’s departure brings a significant chapter of UN operations in Somalia to a close, the organisation has maintained that its broader partnership with the country will continue as Somali-led efforts to build a peaceful, stable and prosperous future move forward.
