Mogadishu, Somalia – The Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre welcomed a senior delegation from the United Kingdom on Tuesday at his office. The group was headed by UK Human Rights Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative in Geneva, Eleanor Sanders, during her initial official trip to Mogadishu.
PM Barre congratulated the UK on its recent election to the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC). He acknowledged the UK’s key contributions to Somalia’s diplomatic successes, such as lifting the arms embargo, securing debt relief, and restoring Somalia’s position on the UN Human Rights Council.
In the discussion, the Prime Minister updated the visitors on the long strides that Somalia has made in human rights. He pointed out the creation of the Independent National Human Rights Commission (INHRC), endorsed by both chambers of the Federal Parliament. He stressed that its members were chosen for their merit, knowledge, and background.
Amb. Sanders thanked the hosts for their hospitality and praised the robust partnership between the UK and Somalia. She highlighted Somalia’s concrete advancements in human rights, especially the formation of the human rights commission.
Earlier that day, Amb. Sanders met with the Minister of Family and Human Rights Development, Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi. The minister noted her pleasure in hosting the UK visitors on their debut trip to Mogadishu. Their talks centered on Somalia’s human rights developments, including creation of the new Commission, which earned high praise from the UK.
At the meeting’s end, Prime Minister Barre, alongside Al-Makhzoumi, awarded Amb. Sanders a certificate honoring the UK’s ongoing support and collaboration in advancing human rights and bolstering Somalia’s institutions.
