A UN Security Council meeting on Monday detailed Somalia’s “exacerbated” humanitarian needs in the face of climate shocks and ongoing Government efforts to counter the terrorist group, Al-Shabaab.

James Swan, head of the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) briefed ambassadors noting that the Somali government is prioritising security and combating Al-Shabaab fighters on many fronts.

“For its part, Al-Shabaab remains determined to continue terrorist attacks with little regard for the loss of civilian life,” he said. “I condemn these terrorist attacks and extend my condolences to the families of those killed.”

Mr. Swan said that current AU Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) forces are leaving the regions as part of a “planned transition of responsibilities to Somali security forces” with the help of the UN Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS). 

He noted that 5,000 ATMIS troops have left Somalia since June 2023, and further reductions are planned over the coming weeks.