Somali human rights defender Zahra Mohamed Ahmad is one of an extraordinary group of women selected to receive the U.S. Secretary of State’s annual International Women of Courage Award.  The award recognizes women around the world who have demonstrated exceptional courage and leadership in advocating for peace, justice, human rights, gender equality, and women’s empowerment …

The U.S. Embassy regrets the actions of the President and Lower House of Parliament to withdraw confidence in Prime Minister Ali Hassan Khayre and his government, which heightened political tensions and undermined the ongoing process of dialogue and negotiation between the Federal Government of Somalia, Federal Member States, and other key stakeholders.  This irregular process …

The United States Embassy in Mogadishu notes with regret that a flight crashed on July 14 in Beledweyne while delivering food assistance to the Somali population in the region.  While the loss of the aircraft and the food assistance onboard is unfortunate, we are relieved that the entire crew are safe and that no one …

The United States Embassy in Mogadishu calls on the Somali Government and people to allow and encourage transparent reporting on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic to facilitate the critical efforts to protect and preserve the health and safety of the people of Somalia. We also call on Somalia’s national leaders to vigorously advocate, defend, …

This week marks the start of Ramadan, a holy month of sacrifice and reflection. On behalf the United States Embassy Mogadishu, I extend our warmest wishes to all Somalis observing Ramadan. This Ramadan comes at a tough time when the world is battling a pandemic, COVID-19. My appeal to you is to follow the health guidelines being highlighted …

The United States Embassy Mogadishu, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), will donate 350 hospital beds and 500 bedsheets to support the Somali Government in preventing and controlling the spread of COVID-19. The Ministry of Health was present at a handover ceremony in De Martino Hospital where medical staff graciously received the …

The U.S. Government is leading the world’s humanitarian and health assistance response to the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of this comprehensive and generous U.S. response, the State Department and USAID are providing an initial investment of nearly $274 million in emergency health and humanitarian assistance to help countries in need, on top of the funding …

Rodney Hunter Political Coordinator U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York February 24, 2020 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you, Special Representative Swan for your briefing today. The United States deeply appreciates your commitment to advancing security, stability, and development in Somalia. I also thank the other two briefers for …

The following is attributable to Spokesperson Ryan Grizzle: The U.S. Embassy Mogadishu strongly condemns the February 16 killing of Somali journalist Abduwali Ali Hassan in the town of Afgoye in the Lower Shabelle region.  Abduwali was a freelance journalist working for Radio Kulmiye and Universal TV.  The United States extends sincere condolences to his wife …

Manda Bay, KENYA – Today Gen. Stephen Townsend, commander, U.S. Africa Command, completed a two-day trip to East Africa to personally assess the security situation at the Kenyan Defense Force installation at Manda Bay, Kenya, before continuing to Somalia to meet with senior Somali officials to discuss the impact of broader U.S. government programs taking …

The following is attributable to Spokesperson Ryan Grizzle: The United States resumed providing direct security assistance to a non-mentored unit of the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) this week in support of counterterrorism operations in Lower Shabelle against al Shabaab. We commend the steps taken by the Federal Government of Somalia to improve public financial …

Good afternoon I have been working on Somalia and Somali issues for decades and I can say that this is a key time in Somalia’s history.  Over the past few years, the Somali government and Somali people have made huge progress towards important milestones. To that end, I am proud to announce that as of …

Excellences, Ladies, and Gentlemen: On behalf of the International Community to the Somalia Partnership Forum, I am extremely pleased to be here today to participate in this joint re-affirmation of the principles underlying the New Partnership for Somalia agreed in London in May 2017. The London Conference outlined a vision for Somalia that I know …

I am so pleased to be back in Somalia, where I spent several years in the early 1980s, and just a few months after USAID Administrator Green’s visit to Mogadishu to reopen the USAID Mission and swear-in our first Mission Director since 1991, Jeffrey Bakken, who all of you in the room know. The re-establishment …

Somalia and its international partners met in Mogadishu on 1-2 October 2019 for the Somalia Partnership Forum (SPF). The participants took stock of the progress made since the previous SPF in July 2018, and agreed priority actions to address the remaining challenges together. International partners recognised Somalia’s achievements and commended the leadership of the Federal …

On October 2, 2019, in Mogadishu, Diana Putman, a Deputy Assistant Administrator for Africa for the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), announced that the U.S. Government is providing nearly $257 million in additional humanitarian assistance in Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 to help the people of the Federal Republic of Somalia.  The United States is …

The United States condemns the attacks today in Baledogle and Mogadishu.  We commend the Somali security forces who repelled the attack against the Somali National Army (SNA) Base in Baledogle, Lower Shabelle region.  The security forces stopped this ultimately failed attack due to their alertness and swift response, not allowing the attackers to breach the …

Representatives of the United States Mission to Somalia attended the closing ceremony of a five-day long training on anti-money laundering and terrorist financing.  The training was funded by the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) at the U.S. Department of State and conducted by the International Development Law Organization (IDLO).  Participants from …

For the fourth year in a row, the United States Government sponsored the Mogadishu Book Fair (MBF) in support of the Somali-driven campaign for literacy and learning. The three-day event, held from August 21-23 at the Sahal terminal, attracted thousands of participants each day.  Somali talent, both local and diaspora, awed the audience with readings …

With a view to promoting stability and preserving unity among the communities of Jubaland, Somalia’s international partners (Canada, Ethiopia, European Union, Finland, Germany, Italy, Kenya, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Turkey, Uganda, United Kingdom, United States, African Union Mission in Somalia [AMISOM], Intergovernmental Authority on Development [IGAD] and United Nations) have engaged all stakeholders in Jubaland to …

The United States condemns in the strongest terms the July 24 terrorist attack in Mogadishu.  We offer our sincerest condolences to the families and friends of the victims who were killed.  We also pray for those who were injured, including Mayor Abdirahman Omar Osman.  We commend the Somali security forces and first responders who provided …

The United States will partially resume the provision of security assistance to non-mentored units of the Somali National Army (SNA).  This resumption will be implemented on a pilot basis with a unit taking part in critical transition operations in Lower Shabelle.  On the basis of internal reforms made by the Federal Government of Somalia and …

The United States Mission to Somalia wishes the people and government of Somalia a joyous Eid al-Fitr.  As Muslims around the world, including in the United States and Somalia, celebrate the completion of the fast during the Holy month of Ramadan, we join in reflecting on elements of humanity such as gratitude, patience, and yielding. …

U.S. Ambassador to Somalia Donald Y. Yamamoto today met with six Somalia business owners who recently traveled to Gulfoods Expo 2019 in Dubai as part of a U.S. and Somalia effort to increase job creation and promote economic development and trade in Somalia.  Three of the participants in the discussion were Somali women business owners.  …

The United States condemns in the strongest terms the February 28 terrorist attacks in Mogadishu.  We commend the heroic actions of the Somali security forces and first responders who unselfishly put themselves in harm’s way to repel the attackers and provide care to the trapped and wounded saving many lives.  We extend our sincerest condolences to …

 The United States stands with the people and government of the Federal Republic of Somalia to commemorate the victims of the horrific October 14, 2017 terrorist attack in Mogadishu that killed 587 innocent Somali citizens and injured hundreds more.  We continue to extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims and …

Press Statement For Immediate Release                                                                                           August 16, 2017 The United States Commends the Federal Government of Somalia’s Efforts to Promote al-Shabaab Defections The United States commends the efforts of the Federal Government of Somalia to facilitate the defections of former and current al-Shabaab members. The United States supports a Somali-led process of degrading …

July 1 marks the 57th anniversary of the creation of the Somali Republic and is an important date in Somali history. On behalf of the United States Mission to Somalia, I wish Somalis everywhere the most joyous of holidays. Since my arrival almost one year ago as the first United States Ambassador to Somalia in …

I wish all Somalis a very happy Eid al-Fitr.  Eid reminds us of the importance of sacrifice and gratitude, virtues that are revered by both Americans and Somalis everywhere.  As family and friends gather on this holiday to exchange good wishes and share gifts, we must not forget the importance of helping those who are …

The United States extends its heartfelt condolences to the families, colleagues, and friends of Abbas Abdullahi Sheikh Siraji, Minister of Public Works and Reconstruction of the Federal Government of Somalia.  Minister Abdullahi was a victim of the high security tensions that continue to plague the population of the capital city of Mogadishu.  A former refugee, …

The United States welcomes H.E. Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khayre’s announcement of the Council of Ministers and applauds the Prime Minister for his effort to create the government promptly to hasten the new administration’s ability to address the critical security and humanitarian challenges facing the country. We urge Parliament to move quickly to confirm the nominees. …

International Partners Disappointed by Somaliland Electoral Delays Denmark, the European Union, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States are deeply disappointed by the Guurti’s decision to delay further Somaliland’s electoral cycle, unilaterally extending the government’s term beyond even the dates requested by government. The further postponement of the presidential election to …

The United States strongly condemns the utterly senseless and barbaric car bomb attack in Abagedo market in Mogadishu February 19, which killed more than three dozen people and injured dozens more.  We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of those killed and express hope for a speedy and complete recovery of the …

Statement by Mark Toner, Acting Spokesperson The United States congratulates the people of Somalia on the successful conclusion of their national electoral process.  We congratulate Mr. Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed on his selection as the next President of the Federal Government of Somalia and look forward to working closely with him and a new government.  We …

January 4, 2017 For Immediate Release  STATEMENT BY JOHN KIRBY, SPOKESPERSON The United States Urges Momentum in Somalia’s Electoral Process The United States welcomes the inauguration of Somalia’s new Federal Parliament and congratulates the people of Somalia on yet another step toward political stability.  Parliament must now prioritize transparency and timeliness in the election of Speakers …

January 3, 2017 Press Statement For Immediate Release    The United States strongly condemns the January 2, terrorist attack near Mogadishu International Airport and the Peace Hotel that killed security personnel and innocent civilians. This attack is another attempt by terrorists to weaken Somalia as it works to conclude the ongoing electoral process.  The United States …

November 2, 2016 On the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, the United States honors the men and women of the Somalia media who, despite threats of intimidation and violence, continue to provide news and information to the Somali people. Journalists working in Somalia face arrest, threats of violence, and at times, …

October 24, 2016 The United States of America, United Nations, African Union, European Union, Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD), Denmark, Ethiopia, Italy, Norway, Sweden, and United Kingdom urge the Federal Government of Somalia to promote and protect the universally recognized rights of freedom of expression and association, enshrined in the Provisional Constitution, and to investigate …

October 11, 2016 The United States government is working closely with the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS), the Interim Galmudug Administration (IGA), and Puntland Administration officials to address concerns related to the September 28 collective self-defense strike by the United States in Galkayo. The United States is aware of reports of casualties in Galkayo and …

September 29, 2016 The United States strongly condemns the September 27 assassination of Somali journalist Abdiaziz Mohamed Ali in Mogadishu.  Mr. Ali worked for Radio Shabelle and Shabelle Media Network.  The United States extends sincere condolences to Mr. Ali’s family, friends and colleagues and salutes the courage of Somali journalists, who continue to struggle daily …

The United States strongly condemns the senseless and brutal attack on the Banadir Beach Restaurant at Lido Beach in Mogadishu. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of those killed and express hope for a speedy and complete recovery of the wounded. This attack once again exemplifies that innocent Somalis bear the …

The United States strongly condemns the terrorist attacks carried out today against the Ministry of Transport in Mogadishu and government offices in Galkaayo. We express our heartfelt condolences to those who were affected by today’s tragedy. We note the Galkaayo attack detonated near an open market, resulting in the death of 15 people and more …

The United States strongly condemns the terrorist attacks in Puntland, Somalia.  Today’s cowardly attacks targeting Puntland security forces, government officials, and civilians are another attempt by terrorists to weaken Somalia ahead of its historic scheduled political transition this autumn toward greater representation. We join international expressions of outrage against these brutal terrorist acts. The United States expresses our condolences to …

In a city rising from the ashes of a brutal civil war, the Mogadishu Book Fair – August 17 – 20, 2016 – exposed the ‘other’ side of Mogadishu. The Fair brought together authors, poets, academics, playwrights, motivational speakers and literary scholars from across the Somali region and all around the world. It showcased more …

August 01, 2016 The United States Mission to Somalia strongly condemns the July 31, attack on the Somali National Police in Mogadishu that killed innocent civilians. The U.S. Mission extends its condolences to the families of those who died during this failed attack. The Mission also commends the professionalism and swift actions of the police …

On July 28, 2016, the State Department released the 2016 Fiscal Transparency Report pursuant to section 7031(b) of the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2016 (Div. K, P.L.114-113) (“the Act”). The report found that 76 of 140 governments reviewed by the Department met minimum requirements of fiscal transparency. Eight governments …

The United States strongly condemns the July 26 terrorist attack on Aden Abdulle Airport in Mogadishu. We extend our thoughts and prayers to the families and friends of the Somali people and United Nations and AMISOM personnel who were killed and injured in this barbarous attack.  The United States Mission to Somalia joins the expressions of outrage …

On behalf of the U.S. Department of State, Teresa and I extend our best wishes to Muslims in the United States and around the world who are celebrating the joyful occasion of Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, a holy month of fasting, prayer, contemplation, and community service. At the same time, we are …

The United States Mission to Somalia joins the people of Somalia in a message of peace and hope during this most blessed time of Eid.  The month of Ramadan has been a time for families, communities, and friends to share the happiness of coming together in intense devotion, reflection, and service. Millions of Somalis all …

On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I congratulate the people and government of Somalia on your 56th Independence Day on July 1. The United States supports Somalia as it continues its progress towards building a stable, federal democracy. We remain confident that this year’s electoral process will be another step forward on …

The U.S. Mission to Somalia condemns in the strongest terms the barbaric attack on the Nasa-Hablood Hotel in Mogadishu. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of those injured or killed, including the State Minister of the Office of the Prime Minister for Environment, and we express hope for a speedy and …

The United States Mission to Somalia is alarmed by the June 23 closure of Radio Daljir by the Puntland Minister of Information, in direct contradiction of the right of free expression.  We urge the Puntland government to honor its commitment to our shared support for press freedom and reopen Radio Daljir without delay. Freedom of …

The United States strongly condemns the June 9 al-Shabaab attack against the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) Forward Operating Base and nearby Somali National Army (SNA) camp in the Hiraan region of Somalia. We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the soldiers who gave their lives in …

The U.S. Mission to Somalia strongly condemns the June 5 assassination of Somali National Television and Radio Mogadishu journalist Sagal Salad Osman in Mogadishu.  The United States extends sincere condolences to Ms. Osman’s family, friends, and colleagues and salutes the courage of Somali journalists, who, day in and day out, struggle to defend the inalienable …

As another new moon heralds the start of the holy month of Ramadan, Michelle and I extend our best wishes to Muslims across the United States and around the world. For many, this month is an opportunity to focus on reflection and spiritual growth, forgiveness, patience and resilience, compassion for those less fortunate, and unity …

The United States Mission to Somalia is pleased to announce that Ahmed Ali Jama will attend the Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES), which will take place June 22-24, 2016, in Palo Alto, California. He will join more than 700 entrepreneurs from around the world along with investors, speakers, and leaders in the entrepreneurship space. Ahmed will …

The U.S. Mission to Somalia condemns in the strongest terms the barbaric attack on the Ambassador Hotel in Mogadishu. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of those injured or killed, including the Members of Parliament, and we express hope for a speedy and complete recovery of the injured. The United States …

Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Linda Thomas-Greenfield represented the United States at the historic re-opening of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Somalia in Washington, D.C. on November 18.  His Excellency Foreign Minister of the Federal Republic of Somalia Abdusalam Omer also attended the event hosted by Somali Ambassador to the United …

The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Federal Government of Somalia and Puntland State to enhance cooperation on police training and countering terrorism.  The Memorandum of Understanding will provide up to $1 million to expand INL’s current police and counterterrorism assistance programs …

The United States welcomes the September 10 announcement by Interim Juba Administration (IJA) President Sheikh Ahmed Mohamed Islam Madobe committing to expand the IJA Assembly by ten members prior to his inauguration on September 12th.  The United States commends the constructive engagement of IJA President Madobe with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Omar …

The United States strongly condemns the September 1 terrorist attack on the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) Forward Operating Base in Janaale, Lower Shabelle region. We extend our thoughts and prayers to the families and friends of the courageous Ugandan troops who were killed and injured. We commend Uganda for its longstanding commitment to …

The United States is pleased to announce more than $6 million in additional life-saving humanitarian assistance for those fleeing the conflict in Yemen and seeking refuge in Djibouti and Somalia.  This new funding brings the total U.S. humanitarian assistance for the Yemen region in FY 2015 to date to nearly $81 million. This funding is …

On behalf of the Government of United States and the American people, United States Special Representative for Somalia (SRS) James P. McAnultyexpresses his deepest condolences to the families of the Somali National Army (SNA) soldiers, Kenyan Defense Forces, and civilians killed by al-Shabaab militants during the August 22 attack on the SNA training camp in …

United States Special Representative for Somalia James P. McAnulty congratulates Somalia as it celebrates its 55th Independence Anniversary on July 1.  “On behalf of President Obama, Secretary of State Kerry and the American people, I congratulate the government and people of Somalia on this special day,” said SRS McAnulty. SRS McAnulty commended Somalia’s government and …

The Special Representative of the United States of America for Somalia, James P. McAnulty, extends his best wishes to all Somali people as they begin to commemorate the holy month of Ramadan. Ramadan is a special month that provides spiritual nourishment and reinforces appreciation for universal values.  It is a time for thoughtful reflection, fasting …

Mogadishu – The United Nations, Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the European Union (EU), African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), the United States of America, and the United Kingdom welcome the progress made to date in the Juba state formation process. “We welcome the efforts of the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) and encourage the …

U.S. Special Representative for Somalia James P. McAnulty condemns the despicable April 20 terrorist attack on United Nations staff, which included Children’s Fund personnel dedicated to improving the lives of the most vulnerable children and families in Somalia. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of those killed and injured.  The …

Mogadishu – The United Nations, Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the European Union (EU), African Union Mission in Somalia, the United States, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Italy, Ethiopia, Uganda and Turkey have welcomed the launch of the Adaado conference for the formation of an interim administration in the central regions. International partners commended the people of …

U.S. Special Representative for Somalia James P. McAnulty condemns the reprehensible April 14 attack on the Ministry of Education in Mogadishu and reaffirms the United States’ solidarity with the Federal Government of Somalia and its people against terrorist organization al-Shabaab.  We commend the timely response of the Somali and AMISOM security forces that saved many …

U.S. Special Representative for Somalia James P. McAnulty condemns in the strongest terms terrorist organization al-Shabaab’s dishonorable March 28 attack on Maka Al Mukarama Hotel in Mogadishu.  He extends his deepest sympathy to the families and friends of those killed in the attack, and best wishes for the complete recovery of those injured. Somalia is …

Press Statement Marie Harf Acting Department Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC March 28, 2015 The United States strongly condemns al-Shabaab’s terrorist attack on the Maka al-Mukarama Hotel in Mogadishu yesterday. We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the innocent victims killed in the attack and our regrets to the …

U.S. Special Representative for Somalia James P. McAnulty condemns in the strongest terms the barbaric attack today on Central Hotel in Mogadishu. He extends his heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of those injured or killed, and he expresses hope for a speedy and complete recovery of the wounded. The United States conveys its …

U.S. Special Representative for Somalia (SRS) James P. McAnulty welcomes the February 9 confirmation of the new Somali Council of Ministers (Cabinet) by the Federal Parliament of Somalia. “The United States of America applauds the efforts of all stakeholders to find compromise to end the political impasse and form a new government.  I urge all …

U.S. Special Representative for Somalia (SRS) James P. McAnulty welcomes the January 28 announcement of the nomination of a new Council of Ministers (Cabinet). The United States commends the efforts of those who worked constructively to resolve the lengthy impasse in nominating Cabinet members, and now urges all stakeholders to expedite the process of forming …