UN cuts over 680 staff in Somalia amid funding crisis  

MOGADISHU, Somalia — United Nations agencies operating in Somalia have laid off more than 680 staff since the beginning of 2025, officials said, citing severe funding shortfalls for humanitarian and development programs.

According to sources close to the matter, the reductions include 158 international staff and 522 Somali employees. Major agencies affected include UNICEF, WFP, FAO, and UNFPA, while UNDP and smaller UN offices are also facing staff cuts.

The staffing reductions come amid a steep decline in international donor support, with several overseas funding streams, including U.S. aid through USAID, being suspended or redirected. Somalia has historically relied on such contributions for both humanitarian relief and development initiatives.

Sources said the financial shortfall has worsened as donors shifted resources to crises in Ukraine, South Sudan, and Syria, leaving UN agencies in Somalia struggling to secure sustained funding for their programs.

Analysts warn that without new funding sources, UN agencies may face significant challenges in maintaining essential humanitarian aid and development activities across Somalia, potentially jeopardizing vulnerable populations who depend on these services.

GAROWE ONLINE