(05-04-23) LASANOD –The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) has come under fire for alleged mismanagement and politicization of aid distribution in the SSC region of Somalia. Various groups, including the SSC Consultative Committee and SSC Diaspora, have accused UNOCHA of misrepresenting the needs of the region and collaborating with the Somaliland government, which they believe undermines the SSC-Khaatumo authority.
UNOCHA has been working to reinforce its capacity in the region to ensure a coordinated and effective response to the ongoing crisis. In collaboration with State-Inter Cluster Coordination Groups, UNOCHA established a task force in Hargeisa, while also setting up area-based coordination mechanisms in Buuhoodle, Xudun, Kalabeydh, Boocame, and Taleex. However, both the SSC Consultative Committee and SSC Diaspora have criticized UNOCHA’s decision to coordinate aid distribution from Hargeisa, the administrative center of Somaliland, which has attacked and shelled Laascaanod.
In a statement, the SSC Consultative Committee expressed its disappointment with UNOCHA’s actions, accusing the organization of violating the “do no harm” principle and supporting a regime that subjugates SSC communities. They have also threatened to file a formal complaint against UNOCHA-Somalia and other aid groups that fail to follow their directives.
The SSC Diaspora has similarly voiced its concerns, stating that UNOCHA’s distribution of humanitarian assistance has been marred by a lack of transparency and fairness. They have called upon all aid agencies to remain transparent in their actions and reporting and urged UNOCHA to prioritize the needs of vulnerable communities over political allegiances.
While the situation remains tense, the SSC Consultative Committee has expressed its willingness to collaborate with efforts that genuinely address the needs of the region’s people. They have also acknowledged the support provided by other organizations, such as UNICEF, to SSC communities.
