The Federal Government of Somalia has concluded the support programme provided by the United Nations Transitional Authority in Somalia (UNTMIS) to the country in the areas of justice and corrections services.

A ceremony to conclude UNTMIS support was held in Mogadishu, attended by the Federal Government’s Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hassan Moalim Mohamud, officials from the Federal Government and state governments, representatives from the United Nations and UNTMIS, judicial and correctional institutions, as well as international partners in Somalia.

Minister Hassan Moalim Mohamud thanked the United Nations, UNTMIS and international partners for their support to Somalia in developing judicial institutions and corrections services, training and capacity-building, and strengthening the rule of law.

The Minister said that the conclusion of UNTMIS activities is an important step towards the Federal Government and national institutions taking full ownership of the development of the justice system.

He added that the knowledge, expertise and capacity of Somali institutions built during the period of UNTMIS support will be an important foundation for further development of the justice system and prison services.

The Federal Government stated that it will continue to develop justice and correctional institutions, with an emphasis on ensuring that national institutions fully take over responsibility for these services.

The meeting concluded with the importance of continuing cooperation and coordination between the Somali government and international partners, to ensure the continuous development of the justice system and prison services.