[Baidoa, Somalia] — Today, the South West State Cabinet of Ministers approved the legislative policy titled “Safeguarding Humanitarian Assistance”, a landmark move aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the distribution of humanitarian aid across the state.
The newly adopted measures come as part of a broader effort to combat food diversion, fraud, and misuse of aid resources, ensuring that assistance reaches those in dire need without obstruction or exploitation.
Under the new policy, aid agencies operating within the state will be required to promptly report any allegations of abuse, corruption, misappropriation, or neglect of assistance to judicial authorities. This step aims to strengthen accountability and ensure swift action against violations.
Additionally, aid agencies must establish a robust complaints procedure. This mechanism will allow aid beneficiaries to report grievances safely and without fear of intimidation or retaliation, ensuring that issues can be addressed transparently and effectively.
The policy introduces stringent legal measures, recognizing aid diversion, embezzlement, trafficking of aid assets, or the misuse of humanitarian assistance as criminal offenses. Those found guilty of such activities will face legal consequences.
Furthermore, individuals who knowingly use or allow their vehicles or drivers to transport stolen humanitarian goods will be deemed to have committed a criminal offense. Vehicle drivers caught transporting stolen aid assets will face imprisonment and a fine, as stipulated in the policy.
The approval of the “Safeguarding Humanitarian Assistance” policy signals a significant step by Somalia’s South West State toward protecting humanitarian resources, promoting good governance, and ensuring aid integrity.
This measure reflects the Southwest government’s commitment to addressing humanitarian challenges and supporting vulnerable communities efficiently and transparently.
