Somali Observatory for Humanitarian Affairs The Voice of Reality.. The Eye of Humanitarian Truth in Somalia
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GAROWE – The Puntland State Government has decided to suspend the activities of several humanitarian organizations operating in its areas, in a move that has sparked wide discussion over the relationship between local authorities and humanitarian actors. The decision follows accusations by the government that some organizations have moved away from the core principles of humanitarian work and have been influenced, according to Puntland authorities, by political disputes related to Somali affairs. The decision comes at a time when Somalia is facing growing humanitarian challenges driven by drought, climate change, and declining livelihoods among vulnerable communities.
Puntland’s Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Abdinasir Haji Yusuf, said the suspension decision followed an assessment of the nature of programmes and projects implemented by some organizations in the state. He explained that the government believes some interventions are no longer sufficiently aligned with the actual needs of local communities. He added that humanitarian and development projects should be implemented through direct coordination with relevant authorities and should reflect the priorities of communities and the specific conditions of each area.
The minister clarified that Puntland does not oppose the presence of humanitarian organizations or the delivery of assistance to affected populations, but rather seeks to address the methods used in identifying projects and directing interventions. He stressed that effective humanitarian action requires reliance on accurate data and clear field assessments to ensure that assistance reaches the most vulnerable groups, particularly communities affected by drought and declining sources of income.
Abdinasir Haji Yusuf said the Puntland government believes there are disparities in the distribution of humanitarian and development assistance across Somalia, arguing that the support received by the state does not correspond with the level of needs on the ground. He called for a greater role for local administrations in the planning, implementation, and monitoring phases of projects, noting that they are better positioned to identify priorities and understand the daily challenges facing communities.
The Puntland government accused some humanitarian actors of being influenced by political considerations rather than focusing solely on humanitarian principles, calling for greater transparency and fairness in aid distribution. It also emphasized that decisions regarding humanitarian projects should be based on actual needs and vulnerability levels rather than other factors that could affect the delivery of assistance to intended beneficiaries.
The decision comes as several parts of Somalia continue to face severe humanitarian conditions due to repeated droughts, rising food insecurity, limited access to basic services, displacement, and economic pressures. Local and international humanitarian organizations continue to provide support in areas such as food assistance, water services, healthcare, and protection, playing a key role in responding to the consequences of recurring crises.
Observers say the dispute between Puntland and some humanitarian organizations reflects broader challenges related to humanitarian coordination mechanisms in Somalia and the need to develop a more effective model of cooperation between authorities and aid agencies. They stressed that balancing respect for local administrations with the preservation of humanitarian independence remains essential to ensuring the continuity of assistance and preventing negative impacts on vulnerable populations.
Analysts also warned that prolonged disagreements could slow down the implementation of humanitarian programmes in areas requiring urgent support. They called for institutional dialogue among all parties to reach practical arrangements that guarantee the continuation of humanitarian operations based on clear professional standards.
Humanitarian assistance in Somalia remains a critical pillar supporting millions of people affected by recurring crises linked to climate change, conflict, and limited livelihood opportunities. For years, humanitarian organizations have provided essential support and strengthened community resilience, particularly in rural and remote areas.
As humanitarian needs continue to grow, strengthening partnerships between local authorities and international organizations has become increasingly important. Clearer and more transparent coordination mechanisms are needed to ensure that assistance is directed according to actual needs while preserving the fundamental humanitarian principles of neutrality, independence, and non-discrimination.
