Washington/Mogadishu (Horn post) — The United States government is reportedly planning to formally and permanently terminate its aid to Somalia following what officials describe as the failure of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration to adequately account for looted food supplies from World Food Program (WFP) warehouses in Mogadishu.
According to informed sources, Washington—long regarded as a cornerstone of international support for Somalia—had previously suspended portions of its assistance. The latest move would see US aid fully withdrawn, marking a significant shift in policy toward Somalia at a time of mounting political, security, and humanitarian pressures.
US officials have raised concerns over the Somali government’s response to the reported theft of food aid, noting the absence of credible explanations regarding the whereabouts of the stolen supplies or accountability measures taken against those responsible. The aid in question was part of broader international efforts to support Somalia’s state-building and recovery process.
If implemented, the decision would deal a major blow to Somalia’s already fragile economy and governance structures, which rely heavily on external financial and humanitarian assistance.
Separately, reports indicate that thousands of Somali National Army (SNA) soldiers are facing uncertainty over salary payments following the suspension of financial support from the United Arab Emirates. The halt in Emirati funding has reportedly affected regular stipends for security forces, raising concerns about morale, cohesion, and operational readiness.
The potential full withdrawal of US assistance comes as Somalia grapples with worsening drought conditions across several regions, heightening fears of a renewed humanitarian crisis. Aid agencies have warned that reduced donor support, combined with climatic shocks and insecurity, could significantly undermine food security and basic services for millions of vulnerable civilians.
Analysts caution that the convergence of reduced international aid, fiscal strain on security institutions, and environmental hardship could further complicate Somalia’s stabilization efforts unless urgent diplomatic and accountability measures are taken to restore donor confidence.
Prepared by:
Horn Post Staff Reporter
