U.S. suspends all aid programs to Somalia over corruption, theft of food relief

MOGADISHU, Somalia — The United States government has announced the immediate suspension of all ongoing aid programs benefiting the Somali people, citing systemic corruption and "unacceptable behavior" by Federal Government officials.

The decision, which impacts the country’s most vulnerable populations, follows specific allegations that Somali authorities interfered with international relief efforts. U.S. officials accused the Federal Government of Somalia of destroying a World Food Programme (WFP) warehouse funded by the U.S. and illegally seizing 76 tons of food aid intended for those in need.

"The Trump administration has a zero-tolerance policy toward the loss, theft, and diversion of life-saving assistance," the U.S. Office of Foreign Assistance said in a statement.

The U.S. added that humanitarian support programs will not resume until the administration of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud takes demonstrable steps to ensure accountability and implements appropriate corrective measures.

The suspension comes at a critical time for the Horn of Africa nation, which is currently grappling with a severe drought that has left millions facing food insecurity. This move highlights growing frustrations in Washington over the perceived lack of oversight and the management of international aid within the Somali government.

The halt in funding is seen as a significant blow to the federal government, signaling a hardening of U.S. policy toward transparency and the protection of humanitarian resources in the region.

GAROWE ONLINE