By Judy Maina
NAIROBI, Kenya— The United Nations’ top official in Somalia on Wednesday called for unity and inclusive dialogue among Somali leaders during a visit to South West State, as the country continues to grapple with security threats and political challenges.
James Swan, the U.N. Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Somalia, met with South West State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed ‘Laftagareen’ in the regional capital Baidoa. The two discussed security, governance, and humanitarian issues, according to a U.N. statement.
“I underscored the importance of unity and inclusive dialogue among Somalia’s political and community leaders,” Swan said during a joint press conference, adding that national issues such as election planning and the fight against Al-Shabaab require coordinated efforts.
Swan also welcomed President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s recent call for a national dialogue platform aimed at bringing together Somali political and community leaders to address the country’s priorities.
“We welcome the initiative… to arrange a platform that brings together the full range of Somali voices to advance the country’s state-building priorities and respond effectively to the Al-Shabaab threat,” Swan said.
The visit follows similar talks held on Monday with Galmudug State President Ahmed Abdi Karie ‘Qoor Qoor’ in Dhusamareb.
In early April, 28 of Somalia’s international partners — including the United Nations — issued a joint statement backing the proposed dialogue platform, describing it as a step toward more inclusive governance and an improved security response.
Focus on elections and humanitarian needs
Swan and Laftagareen also discussed preparations for local council elections and voter registration, being coordinated with Somalia’s National Independent Electoral Commission (NIEC).
“I recalled the importance of an open political environment to permit the successful conduct of elections at all levels,” Swan said.
The envoy noted the worsening humanitarian situation in South West State, where drought, displacement, and funding shortfalls continue to affect vulnerable populations.
“The United Nations is working with humanitarian partners and local authorities to address urgent needs and link humanitarian efforts to longer-term development,” he said.
Somalia remains one of the world’s most fragile states, facing persistent security threats from Islamist militants and repeated delays in the electoral process.
