NAIROBI, Kenya – The Minister of Interior, Federal Affairs and Reconciliation of the Federal Republic of Somalia, H.E. Ali Yusuf Ali (Hosh), represented the nation today at a high-level IGAD ministerial meeting in Nairobi. The summit focused on assessing the progress and future implementation of the Nairobi Declaration on durable solutions for Somali refugees and reintegration of returnees.
Addressing the forum, Minister Ali Hosh provided a comprehensive overview of the humanitarian landscape in Somalia. He detailed the challenges posed by internal displacement, the reintegration of returning refugees, and the compounding effects of climate change-induced droughts on vulnerable populations.
Despite these hurdles, the Minister delivered a strong message of resilience and policy progress. “Although challenges persist, Somalia remains fully committed to implementing the principles and goals of the Nairobi Declaration,” Minister Hosh stated. “In recent years, we have worked consistently to translate these pledges into effective solutions that improve the lives of refugees, displaced persons, returnees, and host communities.”
Minister Hosh highlighted significant legislative achievements as proof of the Federal Government’s dedication to protecting displaced populations. He pointed to the ratification of the Refugee and Asylum Seekers Act in September 2023 and the recent passage of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Bill earlier this month. These legal frameworks are designed to align Somalia’s national systems with international and regional standards, ensuring rights-based protection and support for affected individuals.
The meeting in Nairobi brought together ministers from across the IGAD region to strategize on collective approaches to displacement, with Somalia taking a leading role in advocating for sustainable, long-term solutions that go beyond emergency relief.
