Mogadishu (PP News Desk) — The United Nations (UN) will close its political mission in Somalia on 31 October 2026, after more than 34 years of helping the country build peace and improve its government.
The decision was made after the Somali government asked the UN to end the mission. The UN Security Council agreed.
The UN first sent peacekeepers to Somalia in 1992, after the country’s central government collapsed in 1991. The UN helped deliver food and other aid to people affected by war and famine.
In 1995, UN peacekeepers left Somalia, but the organisation continued to support peace talks and help rebuild the government.
In 2013, the UN started a new mission called UNSOM to help Somalia improve its governance , prepare for elections and protect human rights.
In November 2024, another mission, called UNTMIS, took over. Its main job was to gradually hand over UN responsibilities to Somali organisations and government offices.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres praised the Somali people for their hard work and progress towards peace.
The UN said it will continue helping Somalia through its other organisations. The African Union will also continue supporting security in the country.
Somalia will now take more responsibility for its own future, while continuing to receive help from international partners.
© Puntland Post, 2026