By Asha Elmi - Reporter
Mogadishu, 26 August 2026 - Britain said its future support for Somalia will depend on progress in political dialogue and a credible Somali-led security transition, during a visit by its Minister for Development and Africa, Kirsty McNeill.
McNeill met President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to discuss political and security priorities, including progress toward a sustainable Somali-led transition, the British government said Wednesday.
She urged leaders from across Somalia to engage in constructive dialogue to strengthen national unity and advance political progress.
Continued progress on dialogue and the security transition would be critical to maintaining international confidence and support, Britain said.
The visit, McNeill's first to Somalia, reaffirmed Britain's commitment to supporting a more stable, secure and prosperous future, according to the statement.
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The minister also discussed humanitarian challenges and building resilience to future shocks.
During a visit to a World Food Programme warehouse in Mogadishu, McNeill saw how British support was reaching people affected by drought and food insecurity. Britain said it reached more than 950,000 people with humanitarian and climate-resilience support last year.
McNeill also met leaders from the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) and the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), recognizing the efforts of Somali forces and AU troops.
Britain said it remained ready to provide further non-lethal support through UNSOS, including food rations, tents, medical supplies and casualty evacuation, to help sustain gains against al-Shabaab.
Britain said it would continue working with the federal government, the African Union, the United Nations, civil society and other partners.