Despite gains made in tackling terrorism and advancing the electoral process in Somalia, top UN officials warned the Security Council on Thursday that extra effort and funding are needed to address multiple threats, from climate shocks to spates of violence amid a looming food crisis.
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“Whilst many challenges and risks lie ahead, there are also many opportunities, and I urge all international partners to lean in and provide additional support to the people,” said the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Somalia Catriona Laing.
Regarding current security conditions, Ms. Laing, who also heads the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM), raised concerns about terrorist attacks as well as violence, including in Laascaanood, the capital of the Sool region, long disputed between “Somaliland” and Puntland.
Clashes there between “Somaliland” forces and local Dhulbahante clan militia continued at varying levels of intensity, causing significant casualties, destruction of infrastructure and displacement of civilians, according to the UN Secretary-General’s latest report on the situation.
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To date, there have been 308 civilian casualties, with 36 people killed and 272 injured, she said. Commending efforts by all parties and the Security Council to bring about a ceasefire, she pledged UNSOM’s support towards a peaceful way forward.
