The United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) will remain in the country until December 31, 2027, under an extended timeline intended to support Somalia’s security transition and the planned drawdown of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
The United States has reportedly eased conditions related to financial support for UNSOS during the exit-year period, a move that could help sustain the mission’s operations while the withdrawal process is carried out. Details of the revised funding arrangements have not been publicly released.
The extended period is expected to allow Somali authorities, the African Union and international partners to manage the transfer of security and logistical responsibilities. Some functions currently linked to UNSOS could be taken over by the African Union or other international and regional mechanisms after the mission’s departure.
The transition comes as Somalia continues to face pressure to build the capacity of its security institutions while maintaining operations against Al-Shabaab. UNSOS is expected to continue providing logistical and operational support to Somali security forces and partner missions until the end of its extended mandate in 2027.
