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The Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Somalia, Ambassador James Swan, held talks on Monday with South West State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed ‘Laftagareen’ and members of his administration. The discussions focused on three major issues: security, election preparations, and humanitarian challenges affecting the region.
During the meeting, South West State leaders briefed Ambassador Swan on recent security gains. They highlighted the recovery of Sabiid and Bariire towns in Lower Shabelle, describing them as important steps in the ongoing fight against insecurity. According to the officials, the state government is committed to strengthening security to allow citizens to live in peace and to create a safer environment for development.
President Laftagareen also updated the UN envoy on the voter registration campaign currently underway in South West State. He noted that mobile registration efforts are being rolled out to reach communities that are often left behind, including women, young people, internally displaced persons, and marginalized groups. The president emphasized that making the electoral process accessible to everyone is key to ensuring inclusive participation and fair representation.
Humanitarian needs were another key focus of the discussion. President Laftagareen explained the challenges facing displaced communities at a time when humanitarian funding is becoming more uncertain. Many people in South West State continue to struggle with displacement, food insecurity, and lack of access to basic services. Ambassador Swan acknowledged these challenges and reassured the president that, although global resources are limited, the United Nations will continue to support those most in need. He said the UN remains committed to assisting vulnerable groups within the available funding.
Ambassador Swan also underlined the importance of unity and dialogue in Somalia’s political process. He noted that President Laftagareen has previously played a positive role in encouraging dialogue among Somali leaders and could continue to contribute to building consensus in the future. The envoy stressed that cooperation between federal and state leaders is vital for strengthening peace and stability in the country.
The United Nations, Swan reaffirmed, will remain a partner to both the Federal Government of Somalia and South West State. He said the organization will continue to support efforts to improve security, strengthen governance, and address humanitarian and development needs. Swan added that the UN’s role is not only to provide assistance but also to encourage Somali leaders to work together to overcome political and social divisions.
Somalia’s political system has long been troubled by disputes and delays. The country has struggled for years to establish a reliable electoral process, with disagreements over voting models repeatedly stalling progress. This has slowed down Somalia’s path toward building a stable and democratic system. However, recent efforts by federal and state leaders to agree on a new framework for elections have raised hopes for a more predictable and transparent political process.
Ambassador Swan and President Laftagareen both emphasized the need for all political stakeholders to unite behind the new electoral framework. They agreed that unity and cooperation are the only way to break Somalia’s cycle of political uncertainty. By committing to dialogue and inclusivity, Somali leaders can strengthen state-building efforts and create an environment where citizens feel represented and secure.
The meeting between Ambassador Swan and President Laftagareen reflected the close partnership between the United Nations and Somalia. It showed that, despite financial and political challenges, there is a shared determination to keep moving forward. With stronger security, inclusive elections, and continued humanitarian support, both sides expressed hope that South West State—and Somalia as a whole—can make meaningful progress toward peace and stability.