Mogadishu, Somalia — On Monday, Somalia joined the global community to commemorate World Humanitarian Day, paying tribute to the courage and sacrifice of aid workers while recognizing the resilience of communities enduring conflict, displacement, and climate shocks.
In a statement released in Mogadishu, Somali authorities highlighted the indispensable role humanitarian workers play in delivering life-saving assistance across the country, despite the risks posed by insecurity and terrorism. The commemoration comes at a time when millions of Somalis continue to rely on emergency relief due to protracted droughts, floods, and recurrent violence.
Marking the occasion, the United Kingdom pledged to dramatically scale up its support for Somalia, underscoring what it called an “unwavering commitment” to stand with the Somali people. The new package is expected to prioritize food assistance, healthcare, and resilience-building projects aimed at reducing future dependency on aid.
British officials said the strengthened support would not only deliver immediate relief but also help rebuild livelihoods and invest in long-term sustainability for vulnerable populations.
“This is about saving lives today and building a more hopeful tomorrow,” one senior UK representative said.
Humanitarian agencies operating in Somalia welcomed the announcement, noting that international solidarity is critical at a time when the country faces a funding gap in its emergency response plan. Aid workers in the field continue to brave threats ranging from armed conflict to disease outbreaks in order to reach communities in need.
Somali government officials praised the UK’s commitment, saying such partnerships remain vital in the fight against hunger and poverty.
“World Humanitarian Day reminds us that solidarity saves lives. We honor those who serve in the most difficult conditions and reaffirm our determination to support our people through resilience and recovery,” the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs noted.
As Somalia remembers fallen aid workers and celebrates those who continue their mission, the day reinforced a global message: humanitarian action is not only about immediate relief but also about laying the foundation for peace, dignity, and a sustainable future.
