Mogadishu, 5 December 2017 – Today, the Federal Government of Somalia and the United Nations signed the UN Strategic Framework for Somalia (UNSF), framing UN support to Somalia’s development
priorities over the coming four years. The signatories were H.E. Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Somalia Michael Keating, as well as H.E.
Minister of Planning, Investment and Economic Development, Gamal Mohamed Hassan, and Peter de Clercq, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator.
Mr. Keating noted that the, “the framework sets out how the UN will support Somalia, including in key areas such as achieving universal elections, strengthening the rule of law and improving governance”.
Looking ahead, “it will guide our collective efforts to improve the quality of life and opportunities for all Somalis,” added Mr. Keating.
UN Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Somalia Peter de Clercq emphasized that, “the UNSF recognises past efforts, cementsthe close partnership between Somalia and the United Nations, and reiterates our commitment to working together for the delivery of tangible results to the Somali people.”
The UNSF articulates the collective strategy, commitments and actions of 23 UN agencies and the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia in support of the country’s development priorities, as outlined in the National Development Plan, and towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
It follows an extensive strategic assessment that gathered inputs, feedback, hopes and aspirations of a broad range of stakeholders, including Somali civil society, government counterparts and the public.
In the spirit of “leaving no-one behind”, the framework has adapted gender equality and women’s empowerment, human rights, and youth engagement and empowerment as cross-cutting issues, and is structured along five strategic priorities:
(1) Deepening federalism and state-building, supporting conflict resolution and reconciliation, and preparing for universal elections;
(2) Supporting institutions to improve peace, security, justice, the rule of law and safety of Somalis;
(3) Strengthening
accountability and supporting institutions that protect;
(4) Strengthening resilience of Somali institutions, society and population; (5) Supporting socio-economic opportunities for Somalis.
END