Regional government accuses Somalia’s federal authorities of diverting drought aid and vows legal action.
Tensions between Puntland and Somalia’s Federal Government have escalated as the Puntland administration rejected food aid intended for drought and conflict-affected communities. At a press conference in Bosaso, Puntland’s Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, along with the Minister of Information, accused federal authorities of corruption and deliberate mismanagement in the distribution process.
According to Puntland officials, the food aid, reportedly repackaged from old supplies stored in Suuq Bacad market, was sent through unofficial channels without consulting regional ministries. The Information Minister condemned the Federal Government, alleging that aid designated for drought-stricken communities in Puntland was diverted to private individuals, including elected officials.
“Transporting food through unofficial channels and bypassing Puntland’s Ministries exemplifies the rampant corruption within the Somali Federal Government,” stated the Information Minister, warning of legal action against anyone caught secretly distributing federal aid within Puntland.
The dispute comes on the heels of a broader humanitarian effort to address Somalia’s severe drought crisis, exacerbated by ongoing conflict. Earlier this month, the United Arab Emirates delivered 700 tons of food aid to Somalia, managed by the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA). While SoDMA reported distributing aid to various drought-affected regions, including Puntland and Jubaland, Puntland’s administration questioned the agency’s transparency and accountability.
This marks the second food aid delivery to Puntland, but its rejection reflects deep-rooted mistrust between regional and federal authorities. Puntland has also pledged to notify international donors, urging them to reevaluate their support for Somalia’s federal government and its handling of humanitarian aid.
The rift highlights Somalia’s fragile federal structure and the ongoing challenges in delivering aid to those in need. For Puntland, the issue is not just about mismanagement but also about asserting regional autonomy and holding federal institutions accountable. As the humanitarian crisis worsens, international donors and agencies may face increased scrutiny regarding how their aid is distributed within Somalia’s complex political landscape.
Whether this dispute will further erode cooperation between Somalia’s central government and its regional states remains to be seen, but the fallout threatens to undermine aid delivery to the most vulnerable populations in the country.
