Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has travelled to New York for the UN General Assembly, where he is expected to seek international support for Somalia’s security, humanitarian needs and economic development.
MOGADISHU, Somalia (Somali Report) — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has travelled to the United States to attend the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where he is expected to seek greater international backing for Somalia's security, humanitarian and economic priorities.
Hassan and a government delegation departed Somalia on Monday ahead of the high-level gathering, according to sources close to the presidency.
The Somali leader is expected to address the General Assembly and outline the country's security challenges, with particular emphasis on the fight against Al-Shabaab and efforts to strengthen the country's armed forces.
Somalia has been battling the Al-Qaeda-linked militant group for more than a decade, while its security forces have gradually assumed greater responsibility for operations as international peacekeeping support has been reduced.
Hassan is also expected to discuss political developments in Somalia and efforts to strengthen state institutions, as well as the government's priorities for the security sector.
The president's visit comes at a sensitive time for Somalia, with the country facing political disagreements over governance and the electoral process alongside persistent security challenges.
Beyond security, the Somali delegation is expected to draw attention to humanitarian needs in a country that remains vulnerable to drought, flooding, food insecurity and displacement.
The government is seeking continued international assistance as well as greater investment to support economic development and reduce the country's dependence on humanitarian aid.
During his stay in New York, Hassan is expected to hold bilateral meetings with senior UN officials, US representatives and leaders from other member states.
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The meetings are expected to focus on Somalia's security needs, international partnerships, economic development and humanitarian assistance.
Somalia's participation at the United Nations also carries additional significance because Mogadishu is currently serving as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council.
Somalia won a seat on the 15-member council for the 2025-2026 term, giving it a direct role in discussions and decisions concerning international peace and security.
The government has sought to use the position to raise Somalia's concerns at the highest level of the international system, including the fight against militant groups and the need for predictable support for national and regional security operations.
The Security Council role has also given Somalia an opportunity to engage more closely with major international powers and other council members on issues affecting the Horn of Africa.
Hassan's trip to New York therefore provides the government with a broad diplomatic platform to present its priorities at a time when Somalia is seeking to consolidate security gains, strengthen its institutions and attract international investment.
The Somali delegation is also expected to use meetings on the sidelines of the General Assembly to reinforce existing partnerships and seek additional support for the country's development agenda.
For Mogadishu, the UN gathering offers an opportunity to present its security and development priorities directly to a wide international audience, while pressing for continued engagement as Somalia navigates a complex political and security environment.
About the Author
Ahmed Omar is a senior journalist for Somali Report, based in Mogadishu. He has two decades of experience reporting on Somalia for international and local media. He covers politics, security, governance, business, trade, economic developments and regional affairs.
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