Monday 14,April 2025 {HMC} The United Kingdom has pledged an additional $3.9 million to support Somalia’s security transition, bringing its total contributions to over $50 million since 2021, according to a statement from the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) on Monday.
The funds will be channeled through the United Nations-administered Somali Security Forces (SSF) Trust Fund, which currently provides logistical support to 18,900 Somali National Army and Police Force personnel.
In 2024 alone, UK funding enabled UNSOS to deliver 6,000 tons of food rations and 2,000 tons of diesel to Somali security forces while also facilitating emergency casualty evacuations for hundreds of wounded soldiers on the frontlines.
“The UK is a firm friend of Somalia and at this vital moment, I’m proud to be announcing further funding to support the fight against violent extremists. I encourage other partners to contribute to the UNSOS SSF Trust Fund, to support the brave Somali Security Forces and to ensure a safe and secure future for all Somalis and the region,” British Ambassador to Somalia Mike Nithavrianakis said.
UNSOS, which manages the fund, warned that it needs at least $2 million monthly to meet the growing demands of the Somali Security Forces. A planned increase in personnel to 20,900—outlined in UN Security Council Resolution 2767 (2024)—has intensified the need for predictable, sustainable funding.
Somalia’s National Security Advisor Hussein Sheikh Ali welcomed the UK’s continued support and echoed calls for increased donor funding.
“The logistical support provided by UNSOS has been vital for the Somali Security Forces, especially in areas like casevac and medevac,” said Ali. “We urge our partners to increase contributions in 2025 as the Federal Government continues to generate new forces. Somalia remains committed to transparency, accountability, and compliance with international standards in managing these resources.”
Aisa Kirabo Kacyira, Head of UNSOS, also thanked the UK for its ongoing partnership, noting that casevac operations have been life-saving and morale-boosting for Somali forces.
“It is crucial to have a reliable, predictable Trust Fund,” Kacyira said. “I urge partners to contribute as we continue supporting Somalia’s security transition.”
The $3.9 million contribution follows several other UK donations over the past year, including £5 million in February 2025, £5 million in September 2024, £2.75 million in April 2024, £5 million in January 2024, and £5 million in December 2023. Cumulatively, the UK has provided more than £40.73 million (approximately $50 million) to the SSF Trust Fund since 2021.
