The United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) will cease operations on October 31, ending more than three decades of UN missions supporting peacebuilding, governance, reconciliation and state-building in the country.
The mission’s closure marks the end of a two-year transition process carried out in line with a request from the Federal Government of Somalia and United Nations Security Council resolutions 2753 (2024) and 2809 (2025).
In a statement issued on October 26, 2026, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said the mission’s mandated functions had been transferred to Somali institutions and United Nations agencies, funds and programmes.
The transfer follows a transition roadmap jointly agreed upon by the Somali government and the United Nations. It reflects Somalia’s commitment to taking greater national ownership of its peacebuilding and state-building agenda.
Guterres commended the progress made towards building peace and security in Somalia over the past decades. He also praised the determination and resilience of the Somali people despite the challenges facing the country.
The Secretary-General acknowledged the progress made in Somalia’s journey from conflict towards recovery while noting that significant political, security, humanitarian and development challenges remain.
He called for sustained international support to consolidate the gains made, advance inclusive political dialogue and reconciliation, strengthen institutions, and promote and protect human rights.
Guterres further underscored the importance of continued international assistance in addressing the threat posed by Al-Shabaab. He said support was necessary to enable a gradual and sustainable security transition in the country.
Despite the closure of UNTMIS, the United Nations will continue working in Somalia through its resident agencies, funds and programmes. The organisation will partner with Somali authorities, the African Union and other international partners to advance peace, stability, human rights and sustainable development.
The Secretary-General also expressed gratitude to successive Special Representatives, national and international UNTMIS personnel, and staff who served in the mission’s predecessor operations.
He recognised their dedication to advancing peace and state-building, often under exceptionally difficult conditions, and paid tribute to United Nations personnel who lost their lives while serving in Somalia.
Guterres reaffirmed the United Nations’ enduring commitment to the people of Somalia and to supporting Somali-led efforts to build a peaceful, stable and prosperous future.
