The United States has announced the appointment of a new ambassador to Somalia, Richard H. Riley, who is set to assume his official duties soon. Riley’s appointment marks the fourth U.S. ambassador to Somalia since the reestablishment of diplomatic relations between the two nations in 2013.
Richard H. Riley will be succeeding Larry André Jr., who held the ambassadorial position for one year. Expressing confidence in his ability to handle the responsibilities of the role, Riley emphasized his commitment to working closely with various U.S. entities, including the United States military, USAID, and other organizations engaged in the fight against international terrorism.
Diplomatic relations between the United States and Somalia were restored in 2013, following a period of instability and protracted civil war. Ambassador Stephen Schwartz became the first U.S. ambassador to Somalia in June 2016, and he was succeeded by Donald Yamamoto in October 2018. Larry André Jr. took over the position in February 2022 and held it until July 2023.
This appointment, the US said reaffirms the United States’ commitment to supporting Somalia on its journey towards stability and development.