The Transition Planning Cell is responsible for planning and implementing the phased handover of UNTMIS' functions to the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) and the United Nations Country Team (UNCT), ahead of the Mission’s closure.
The Cell's activities involve negotiating and developing a comprehensive roadmap for the phased transfer of responsibilities; working in consultation with institutions of the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) and various UN agencies; and planning and working towards the complete handover of all outstanding tasks by the end of October 2026.
The Cell is organised into three work streams to manage the various aspects of the transition, which also includes coordination with the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
Overview of the UNTMIS Transition:
Mandate change: UNTMIS succeeded the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) on 1 November 2024, in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2753 (2024).
Duration: The transition is a two-year process, scheduled to conclude by 31 October 2026, when UNTMIS will end its operations.
- Goal: The transition reflects progress in Somalia and aligns with the Federal Government's request for national ownership and self-reliance, with the ultimate goal of transferring all remaining tasks to national institutions and UN agencies.
The transition is structured in two main phases:
- Phase One (November 2024 – October 2025): The first phase, guided by UN Security Council Resolution 2753 (2024), prioritized support and capacity building in key areas while transferring specific tasks to the FGS and other stakeholders. Key areas of focus included state-building, human rights, rule of law, security sector support, coordination of international aid, and support for countering violent extremism. Specific, less complex tasks were identified for handover by 31 October 2025, with a roadmap outlining practical modalities, including personnel reduction.
- Phase Two (November 2025 – October 2026): The second phase involves the progressive transfer of all remaining functions to the FGS, the UNCT, and other partners, leading to the mission's conclusion. UNTMIS’ mandate is set to end by 31 October 2026, when all functions are expected to be fully taken over by national institutions and existing UN development programs. The transition is condition-based, with the Security Council regularly reviewing progress to ensure a stable handover of responsibilities.