On 31 October, the United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) will complete its two-year transition and cease operations, pursuant to Security Council resolutions 2753 (2024) and 2809 (2025) and in line with the request of the Federal Government of Somalia. This milestone brings to a close more than three decades of United Nations missions in support of peacebuilding, state-building, governance and reconciliation in Somalia. In accordance with the transition roadmap jointly agreed between the Federal Government of Somalia and the United Nations, the mandated functions of UNTMIS have been transferred to Somali institutions and United Nations agencies, funds and programmes, reflecting Somalia's commitment to greater national ownership of its peacebuilding and state-building agenda.
The Secretary-General commends the progress achieved over the past decades towards building peace and security in Somalia. He commends the determination and resilience of the Somali people despite the many challenges they face, and acknowledges the tremendous efforts made on the country’s journey from conflict to recovery. The United Nations will continue to support Somalia through its resident agencies, funds and programmes, working in partnership with Somali authorities, the African Union and other international partners to advance peace, stability, human rights and sustainable development.
Recognizing the significant political, security, humanitarian and development challenges that remain, the Secretary-General calls for sustained international support to consolidate progress, advance inclusive political dialogue and reconciliation, strengthen institutions, and promote and protect human rights. He also underscores the importance of continued support to address the threat posed by Al-Shabaab and enable a gradual and sustainable security transition.
The Secretary-General expresses his profound gratitude to his successive Special Representatives, all national and international personnel of UNTMIS and its predecessor missions, and to all those who have served for their dedication to advancing peace and state-building efforts, often under exceptionally difficult conditions. The Secretary-General also pays special tribute to those United Nations personnel who lost their lives in the service of peace in Somalia.
The Secretary-General reaffirms the enduring commitment of the United Nations to the people of Somalia and to supporting Somali-led efforts to build a peaceful, stable and prosperous future.
Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General
New York, 26 October 2026
