Logistics Cluster Augmentation in Response to the Humanitarian Situation in Somalia

WFP has maintained a Logistic Cluster Special Operation (SO 200344) since the onset of the emergency in 2011, this has now closed. This SO No. 200546 plans to refocus the efforts while continuing to provide the following services:

1) Logistics coordination and information management,

2) Augmented logistics capacity in the form of sea transport and warehousing.

After the initial Logistic Cluster Special Operation (SO 200344), a comprehensive Lessons Learned Mission as well as a full review of the Common Shipping Service, was held in Nairobi. The findings of the review indicated a unanimous need to continue the vital logistics services that were offered.

The success of the AMISOM (African Union Mission in Somalia) forces in liberating the port town of Kismayo and the immediate surrounding area, from AL Shabaab rebels, has enabled the humanitarian community to access the critical southern region of Somalia that had been inaccessible for several years. As a result, humanitarian partners are planning to scale up operations and delivery of essential good and services.

In addition, due to the improving security situation in Mogadishu as a result of the withdrawal of Al-Shabaab, a number of United Nations agencies and NGO's are planning to relocate country offices from Nairobi to Mogadishu. This process will necessitate the involvement of the Logistics Cluster to coordinate the timely and efficient movement of large quantities of equipment to Mogadishu to support the planned relocation.