Hornpost
James Swan Warns Funding Gaps Could Undermine Somalia’s Security Gains.
Mogadishu, (Hornpost) – The Federal Government of Somalia, the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), and the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) jointly convened a high-level meeting on the Somali Security Forces (SSF) Trust Fund, underscoring its critical role in sustaining Somali-led security operations.
The meeting brought together senior government officials, representatives from the African Union and the United Nations, leaders of the Somali National Armed Forces and Police, and members of the international diplomatic community. Participants stressed the urgent need to expand the donor base to ensure the continuity of essential security operations across the country.
Officials revealed that basic monthly support—covering food rations, fuel, and medical air evacuation—costs approximately $1.2 million, while comprehensive support reaches $2.3 million per month. Through the SSF Trust Fund, UNSOS provides logistical backing to Somali forces engaged in joint operations with AUSSOM, including supplies, communications, transportation, and protective equipment.
The meeting also highlighted that a significant portion of procurement is sourced locally, contributing to economic stimulation and reinforcing national ownership. Participants warned that delays in funding could jeopardize recent security and stabilization gains.
Addressing the gathering, UN Special Representative for Somalia James Swan emphasized the importance of sustained donor engagement with the UNSOS-managed Trust Fund. He called for urgent additional contributions, describing the SSF Trust Fund as a transparent, reliable, and effective mechanism for delivering critical logistical and operational support to Somalia’s security forces.
Pictures of the event:
Prepared by:
Horn post staff Reporter
