In a world where crises often test the limits of humanity, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to exemplify leadership in global humanitarian efforts. In its latest initiative, the UAE has provided 30,000 food baskets to Sudanese refugees in Uganda’s Kiryandongo camp. This life-saving gesture is set to benefit nearly 100,000 individuals, offering much-needed relief to families displaced by conflict and hardship. A Commitment to Humanitarian Excellence This initiative marks the second phase of the UAE’s comprehensive humanitarian program aimed at supporting communities affected by crises and disasters. Spearheaded by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, President of the UAE, these efforts reflect the country’s unwavering commitment to extending aid and solidarity to vulnerable populations worldwide. The distribution of food baskets was overseen by UAE Ambassador to Uganda, Abdullah Hassan Al Shamsi, alongside senior Ugandan government officials and local community leaders. Thei
The United Nations' Special Envoy for Somalia, Catriona Laing, delivered a grim message to the Security Council regarding the alarming rise in civilian casualties in the troubled Horn of Africa country during the past year. The situation is primarily attributed to the ongoing insurgency led by jihadist group Al-Shabab and the conflicts in the breakaway province of Somaliland. In this article, we delve into the details of this concerning issue and the efforts being made to address it.
The Ongoing Crisis:
Somalia has been grappling with a protracted and brutal insurgency by the extremist group Al-Shabab since the start of the 21st century. Despite being driven out of major cities in 2011 and 2012, Al-Shabab continues to operate in vast rural areas, particularly in central and southern regions. The group consistently carries out attacks targeting government officials, civilians, and security forces, contributing to the rising civilian casualties.
President's Pledge:
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who assumed office in the previous year, vowed to wage a comprehensive campaign against extremist groups. Al-Shabab has not only posed a threat within Somalia but has also conducted deadly attacks in neighboring countries, including Kenya.
Somaliland Conflict:
In addition to the Al-Shabab insurgency, Somaliland, a self-proclaimed republic that declared its independence from Somalia in 1991, has been grappling with months of conflict. The conflict involves its military and a clan militia opposing the authorities. It is important to note that Somaliland's independence has not gained international recognition.
International Efforts:
Both the United Nations and the African Union have missions and forces stationed in Somalia. UN resolutions have mandated that the African Union Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) be completely dismantled by the end of the upcoming year, with security responsibilities transferred to the Somali military and police.
A Plea for Support:
In her address to the Security Council, Catriona Laing called on all partners to consider providing support to fill the funding gap for ATMIS. This support is crucial to ensure the mission can fulfill its mandate and prevent underpayment of the troops.
U.S. Commitment:
Robert Wood, a representative of the United States government, emphasized their commitment to supporting Somalia and the African Union in strengthening Somalia's security sector capacity.
The escalating civilian casualties in Somalia are a matter of grave concern, and the international community, represented by the United Nations and the African Union, is taking steps to address this issue. Efforts are underway to shift security responsibilities to the Somali military and police while also seeking vital support to ensure the success of these missions. The road ahead remains challenging, but with international collaboration, there is hope for a more secure and stable Somalia in the future.
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