Somali Gov’t Says WFP Commodities Returned Amid U.S Aid Suspension

GOOBJOOG NEWS| MOGADISHU: Federal Government of Somalia has confirmed that all humanitarian commodities removed from a World Food Programme (WFP) warehouse affected by port expansion activities have been fully returned, amid a diplomatic fallout that has seen the United States suspend certain forms of support to the Somali federal authorities.

In a press statement issued in Mogadishu on Monday, the government said the commodities referenced in recent reports had been returned in full to the World Food Programme, and acknowledged responsibility for the incident, describing it as an “unfortunate situation” that should not have occurred.

“To ensure the continued, secure, and uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian assistance, the Government has provided the World Food Programme with a larger and more suitable warehouse within the Mogadishu Port area,” the statement said, adding that the new facility would improve storage capacity and support efficient distribution.

The clarification comes against the backdrop of a reported decision by the United States to suspend support to the Federal Government of Somalia, following concerns raised over the handling of humanitarian supplies and broader issues of coordination and accountability. U.S. officials have publicly linked the suspension to the need for safeguards around aid delivery, although the precise scope and duration of the measures have not been formally detailed in public statements.

In its response, the Somali government emphasized that it has maintained “consistent and constructive communication” with the WFP over many years on operational and logistical matters, while conceding that coordination and information-sharing with international donors needs to be strengthened.The government said it would review the circumstances surrounding the warehouse incident and take steps to enhance communication mechanisms to prevent similar issues in the future.

Reaffirming its commitment to humanitarian principles, transparency, and accountability, the Federal Government said it values its partnership with the World Food Programme, the United States, and the wider international donor community, and described the statement as an important step toward resolving the matter and restoring cooperation in support of the Somali people