Mogadishu, (SONNA) – A two-day consultative meeting jointly organized by Somalia’s Federal Ministry of Women and Human Rights Development and the United Nations Transition Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) concluded today in Mogadishu.
The discussions focused on finalizing plans and procedures for the transfer of the Human Rights and Protection Group (HRPG) portfolio from UNTMIS to the Federal Government of Somalia and the United Nations Country Team (UNCT), as part of the broader transition process ahead of UNTMIS’s departure.
The consultation brought together 25 senior government officials and 23 representatives from various UN agencies. Participants discussed how to sustain and enhance ongoing efforts in human rights protection and promotion in alignment with Somalia’s national priorities and future strategies.
Speaking at the closing session, Director General of the Ministry, Mohamed Bashir Omar, reaffirmed the government’s strong commitment to safeguarding and advancing human rights in Somalia. He described the handover as a major milestone toward national ownership and long-term self-reliance.
“Somalia is ready to fully lead the human rights agenda, rooted in our values, our international obligations, and the aspirations of our people,” said the Director General.
He also emphasized the importance of continued cooperation between the government and international partners to establish an integrated and effective human rights framework. He called for greater investment in capacity-building, resource mobilization, and institutional strengthening to ensure a smooth and sustainable transition.
Also speaking at the event were Ambassador Yusuf Garaad Omar and the Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General, Raisedon Zenenga, both of whom expressed strong support for Somalia’s leadership in the human rights domain.
