(11-04-23) BAIDOA– United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres visited the city of Baidoa and the surrounding areas, emphasizing the need for increased support and aid for displaced persons affected by the ongoing conflict with Al-Shabaab and severe drought in the region.
Guterres was warmly welcomed at Baidoa airport by the Acting President and 2nd Deputy Speaker of the South West Parliament, Mrs. Shamso Mohamed Yarow, as well as the Minister of Relief, the Minister of Ports, the Minister of Internal Affairs, and the Governor of Baidoa District. During his visit, the UN Secretary General focused on monitoring humanitarian issues and supporting the ongoing operation led by the Federal Government to fight the extremist group Al-Shabaab.
In Baidoa, Guterres visited several camps housing displaced persons, witnessing firsthand the dire living conditions and urgent needs of those affected by both the conflict and the devastating drought. Thousands of families have been forced to flee their homes due to the threats posed by Al-Shabaab and the worsening environmental conditions in the region.
As part of his visit, Guterres met with Federal Minister of Interior and Reconciliation, Ahmed Macalin Fiqi, to discuss strategies and cooperation between the UN and the Somali government to address the complex challenges facing the country. The two leaders expressed their commitment to working together to alleviate the suffering of the displaced population and to bring about lasting peace and stability.
In a joint press conference with the President of the Republic, Guterres emphasized that Somalia is in urgent need of increased international aid and support. The Secretary General called on the international community to step up their efforts to provide essential resources and assistance to the Somali government and the affected populations.
“Somalia is facing a critical moment, and the international community must come together to help address the needs of those displaced by both conflict and drought,” said Guterres. “We must act swiftly and decisively to prevent further suffering and to pave the way for a brighter future for all Somalis.”
The visit by the UN Secretary General highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the people of Somalia and the need for a coordinated international response to address the humanitarian crisis in the country. With continued support and collaboration, it is hoped that Somalia can overcome these challenges and build a more stable and prosperous future for its people.
