MOGADISHU, Somalia — July 19, 2026 — The United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) could shut down by December 31 ,2026 if a funding crisis is not resolved, putting more than 1,200 UN employees at risk of losing their jobs and threatening the operational capacity of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), according to sources familiar with the matter.
The possible closure of UNSOS has raised concerns among officials and international partners over the future of the logistical support system that enables African Union forces to operate in Somalia as they support Somali security forces in the fight against Al-Shabaab.
According to sources, the potential shutdown could affect 480 national staff members and 800 international employees working for UNSOS. Many could lose their positions or be required to return to their home countries if alternative funding arrangements are not secured before the deadline.
According to internal sources, the United States has indicated that it will oppose any attempt by the United Nations Security Council to continue financing UNSOS beyond the end of 2026.
The decision has created uncertainty over the future of the UN office, which provides essential operational services to AUSSOM, including transportation, engineering support, logistics coordination, and other critical assistance required for military operations.
“The possible closure of UNSOS would also jeopardize the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), undermining the security architecture that has supported the fight against Al-Shabaab for 18 years,” sources said.
Acting UNSOS Head Qurat ul Ain Sadozai recently informed staff during a meeting in Mogadishu, attended by UN Assistant Secretary-General for Operational Support Atul Khare, that the office could be forced to close by December 31 if the financial situation remains unchanged.
According to people briefed on the meeting, Sadozai told employees that contingency planning is already underway, including preparations for a possible closure of UNSOS within the next five months.
Sources familiar with the discussions said UN personnel in Mogadishu remain concerned about the uncertainty surrounding their employment and the future of the support mission.
Impact on AUSSOM Operations
The possible closure of UNSOS could directly affect AUSSOM, which relies heavily on UN-backed logistical support to maintain its operations across Somalia.
According to security sources, losing access to transportation, supply systems, engineering services, and other operational support could create significant challenges for African Union forces deployed in the country.
Sources warned that if UNSOS shuts down without a replacement mechanism, AUSSOM could face serious operational difficulties and potentially end its mission earlier than originally planned.
The African Union mission was established to support Somalia’s security transition and assist government forces in confronting Al-Shabaab, an armed group that has carried out years of attacks against Somali civilians, government institutions, and international partners.
Background to UNSOS and AUSSOM
UNSOS has played a central role in supporting international and African Union security operations in Somalia for years by providing logistical and administrative assistance to deployed forces.
The office has supported previous African Union missions, including the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), which was replaced by AUSSOM as part of efforts to gradually transfer security responsibilities to Somali forces.
AUSSOM continues to operate alongside Somali security forces as part of broader efforts to strengthen national security institutions and reduce reliance on foreign military support.
The possible funding shortfall comes at a sensitive period as Somalia continues efforts to expand its security capabilities while maintaining international support for operations against Al-Shabaab.
Diplomatic Efforts and Possible Solutions
Sources said discussions are ongoing among international partners and regional actors to identify possible alternatives and prevent a disruption of the support system.
Officials are reportedly exploring different options, including finding new funding arrangements or developing alternative mechanisms to provide logistical assistance to African Union forces.
However, sources familiar with the talks said securing a replacement for UNSOS support could be challenging due to previous difficulties in obtaining long-term financial commitments for Somalia’s security operations.
The African Union and United Nations have not announced a final decision on the future of the support structure.
The potential closure of UNSOS could have major implications for Somalia’s security efforts, as AUSSOM depends on reliable logistical support to maintain its operations.
Security officials warn that any reduction in operational capacity could affect ongoing efforts to weaken Al-Shabaab and support Somali forces as they take greater responsibility for national security.
The uncertainty also raises concerns for hundreds of UN employees and their families in Somalia, who face possible job losses if a funding solution is not reached.
With the December 31 deadline approaching, international partners are expected to intensify discussions on whether UNSOS can continue operating or whether a new support model will be created to sustain AUSSOM’s mission in Somalia.