UK reaffirms long-term support for Somalia as Minister visits Mogadishu

Wednesday August 26, 2026

Mogadishu (HOL) — The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Somalia during the first visit to the country by Kirsty McNeill, the UK minister for development and Africa.

During the visit this week, McNeill met President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and discussed Somalia’s political and security priorities, including the need for progress toward a credible and sustainable transition to Somali-led security.

The minister encouraged leaders across Somalia to engage in constructive dialogue to strengthen national unity, advance political progress and build consensus on the country’s future.

She underlined that continued progress on political dialogue and the security transition will be critical to maintaining international confidence and support.

McNeill reaffirmed that the UK remains a committed partner to Somalia, working with Somali leaders and communities to support a more stable, secure and prosperous future for the Somali people.

The discussions also covered Somalia’s humanitarian challenges and the importance of building greater resilience to future shocks.

Last year, the UK reached more than 950,000 people with humanitarian and climate resilience support.

During a visit to a World Food Programme warehouse in Mogadishu, McNeill saw how UK support is reaching people affected by drought and food insecurity.

She heard how the UK is working with the federal government, the United Nations and civil society partners to strengthen systems, deliver lifesaving support and help communities build resilience, with a particular focus on women and girls.

The minister also met leaders from the United Nations Support Office in Somalia and the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia.

The Minister also met leaders from the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) and the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), recognising the efforts and sacrifices of Somali Security Forces and African Union troops in supporting Somalia’s security objectives. 

“The UK stands ready to provide further support for Somali forces through UNSOS, which plays a vital role in sustaining Somalia’s hard-won security gains against al-Shabaab,” the statement said. “Progress on political dialogue between all Somali leaders and on plans for Somalia’s security transition will be important in confirming future support.”

The UK said its existing support to UNSOS provides essential non-lethal assistance, including food rations, tents, medical supplies and casualty evacuation.

The UK said it remains committed to working with Somalia’s federal government, the African Union, the United Nations, civil society and other partners to support the country’s stability and development.