MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Somalia’s federal government on Thursday rejected U.S. allegations that it had ransacked a World Food Programme (WFP) warehouse in Mogadishu, after Washington announced on Wednesday that it was suspending aid to the country.
“The Federal Government of Somalia has taken note of the statement issued by the United States Department of State regarding allegations related to a World Food Programme (WFP) warehouse,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.
“The Government wishes to clarify that the commodities referenced in recent reports remain under the custody and control of the World Food Programme, including assistance provided by the United States.”
The government emphasized that the WFP warehouse in question is located within the Mogadishu Port area, where ongoing expansion and repurposing works are underway as part of broader port development activities.
“These operations have not affected the custody, management, or distribution of humanitarian assistance,” the statement said.
Somalia’s authorities also pledged to “review this matter through technical inter-agency committee in coordination with humanitarian partners.”
“The Federal Government of Somalia remains fully committed to humanitarian principles, transparency, and accountability, and values its partnership with the United States and all international donors. Further updates will be provided upon completion of the review,” the ministry added.
The United States, meanwhile, accused the Somali government on Wednesday of destroying a “US-funded World Food Programme (WFP) warehouse and illegally seized 76 metric tons of donor-funded food aid intended for vulnerable Somalis.”
“The Trump Administration has a zero-tolerance policy for waste, theft, and diversion of life-saving assistance,” Washington said, announcing the suspension of aid.
Contact us: info@somaliguardian.com
