Somalia’s government has rejected US allegations that officials interfered with WFP food aid at Mogadishu port, insisting supplies remain under UN control as a review with aid partners continues.

The Federal Government of Somalia has rejected US allegations that Somali officials interfered with food aid stored at a World Food Programme (WFP) warehouse in Mogadishu, stating that the supplies remain under the custody and control of the UN agency.

In a press statement released on Thursday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said the government had taken note of a statement issued by the US Department of State regarding reports linked to a WFP warehouse.

The statement comes after Washington suspended assistance to Somalia, alleging that officials had seized and destroyed donor-funded food aid.

“The Government wishes to clarify that the commodities referenced in recent reports remain under the custody and control of the World Food Programme, including assistance provided by the United States,” the statement said.

Regarding port development activities, the Somali government said the warehouse cited in the reports is located within the Mogadishu port area, where expansion and repurposing works are ongoing as part of broader port development activities. It emphasised that these activities have not affected the management or distribution of humanitarian aid.

“The government further clarifies that the WFP warehouse in question is located within the Mogadishu Port area, where ongoing expansion and repurposing works are underway as part of broader port development activities,” the statement said.

US officials previously announced the pause in assistance after reports that a WFP warehouse at the port had been demolished and food aid seized. The United States said the aid, funded by American taxpayers, was intended for vulnerable populations.

The Somali government did not directly address claims that the warehouse was destroyed but stressed that port activities have not interfered with humanitarian operations and that food aid distribution continues as normal.

Addressing concerns, the statement added that the government is reviewing the matter through a technical inter-agency committee, in coordination with humanitarian partners, to address concerns related to port expansion activities.

“In response to the concerns raised from the port expansion activities, the Federal Government continues to review this matter through a technical inter-agency committee in coordination with humanitarian partners,” the statement said.

Somalia relies heavily on international assistance to support millions affected by food shortages, displacement, and conflict.

The World Food Programme is among the largest providers of food aid in the country, with operations supported by multiple donors, including the United States.

The US decision to suspend assistance has raised concerns among aid agencies and analysts, who warn that disruptions could affect humanitarian programmes if the dispute is not resolved.

In its statement, the Somali government reaffirmed its commitment to humanitarian principles, transparency, and accountability, while emphasising its partnership with the United States and other international donors.

“The Federal Government of Somalia remains fully committed to humanitarian principles, transparency, and accountability, and values its partnership with the United States and all international donors,” the statement said.

The government said further updates would be provided once the review process is complete, without specifying a timeline.