The United States has a shared interest with Somalia to advance political and economic stability, prevent terrorism, and address humanitarian crises. Our partnership with the Federal Government of Somalia is key to achieving these objectives.
In Mogadishu February 15-16, the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Molly Phee and Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa Mike Hammer met with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, parliamentarians, and international partners to discuss Somalia’s efforts to provide security and other essential services to its people. Assistant Secretary Phee reiterated U.S. respect for Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. She also reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to support Somali-led counterterrorism efforts against al-Shabaab, a brutal and predatory al-Qaida affiliate responsible for countless human rights violations that threatens stability throughout the region.
In furtherance of our security partnership, Assistant Secretary Phee joined President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in presiding over the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding for the construction of infrastructure to train and house the U.S.-trained 3,000-strong “Danab” advanced infantry brigade. She also expressed support for an AU-led multinational force to succeed ATMIS while Somalia continues to build its security capabilities.
Over the past decade, Somalia has made significant strides forward, most recently, the lifting of the UN arms embargo, achieving debt relief completion point, and joining the East African Community. In addition to continued progress on security, defeating al-Shabaab requires progress on political reconciliation, expanded governance, and economic growth. Reforming and finalizing Somalia’s provisional constitution is critical to these efforts. Assistant Secretary Phee encouraged progress on constitutional reform through a transparent and consultative process.
The United States is also committed to addressing Somalia’s conflict and climate borne humanitarian challenges. Recurrent droughts and floods mean an estimated 6.9 million people – almost two in five Somalis – need urgent humanitarian assistance in 2024. That is why the United States, in particular through the U.S. Agency for International Development, has provided over $1.7 billion in humanitarian assistance to Somalia since 2022 to mitigate the impact of draughts and floods.
Despite any challenges, the determined will of the Somali people – whether in Somalia or the diaspora – gives hope for a brighter tomorrow. The international community benefits from a democratic, prosperous, healthy, secure, and stable Somalia. The United States will continue to stand side-by-side with Somalia as it works to achieve its potential.
