Britain announces further $ 4.3 million for Somali Army

Britain has announced an additional contribution of over $ 4.3 million to the UN Somali National Army Trust Fund, which will help pay for essential resources including rations, fuel and medical supplies.

Making the announcement in Mogadishu following a meeting with Somali Prime Minister Omar Sharmake, UK Minister of State for the Armed Forces Penny Mordaunt said the contribution demonstrates her country’s commitment to the SNA in building the foundations for lasting security in Somalia more widely.

“I am delighted to announce the UK’s further donation of over $ 4.3 million to the Trust Fund, which will support the SNA in its fight to defeat Al Shabaab,’’ said Mordaunt.

Mordaunt said continued progress on the security front is vital to the future peace and prosperity of Somalia especially at this critical time as the country prepares for elections towards the end of the year.

The minister called on Somalia to take urgent states to develop the SNA and quickly move forward on national security architecture, capacity building and wider security sector reforms, in order to help deliver real and lasting change for the Somali people.

The United Nations Support Office for Somali (UNSOS) SNA Trust Fund provides logistics support – such as food, water, fuel, tents, transportation and medical support – to SNA units in joint operation with AMISOM.