Nairobi (Sunatimes) United Nations special representative for Somalia Augustine Mahiga has said Somalis have a reason for hope despite the devastating famine that still rages in the country, following the recently seen ‘first hopeful moments’ in years on the political side.

In a statement aimed at commemorating the International Peace Day, Mahiga said a series of landmark positive developments, including the signing of the Kampala Accord, the recently concluded consultative meeting in Mogadishu which resulted in the endorsement of a roadmap for ending the transition and the withdrawal of Al-Shabaab from Mogadishu gives Somalis reason for hope.

He said the theme for this year focuses on “Peace and Democracy” which is a core value for the United Nations and is crucial for the human rights of the Somali people whose country has been torn apart by war for over twenty years.

Mahiga called on all Somalis to contribute their collective resources and energies to embark on outreach and reconciliation initiatives, in particular to those outside the peace process, and to solidify relations with emerging administrations.

He added that Peace as a fundamental right, the Somalis inside the country, the Diaspora, the displaced and refugees have been waiting for it for the last two decades and have endured great privations.

United Nations special representative for Somalia Augustine Mahiga said with the recent encouraging positive developments in the country, there is a reason to hope that there will be light at the end of the long dark tunnel of recent Somali history.

He added that the United Nations in general and his office in particular are committed now than ever before to realise the dreams of the Somali people for peace and democracy to prevail as they embrace the changing realities in the political landscape.

United Nations General Assembly Resolution 55/282 calls on all Member States and organizations in the world to commemorate the International Peace Day in an appropriate manner, through various activities, including public awareness, purposefully to strengthen the ideals of peace and alleviate tensions and conflicts.

By Dahir Alasow