White House Nomination of United States Ambassador to Somalia
Press Statement
Jen Psaki
Department Spokesperson
Washington, DC
February 24, 2015
President Obama, today, nominated Katherine S. Dhanani to serve as the first United States Ambassador to Somalia since
1991. This historic nomination signals the deepening relationship between the United States and Somalia. It also allows
us to mark the progress of the Somali people toward emerging from decades of conflict. Somalia has considerable work
ahead to complete its transition to a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous nation. The United States is committed to
supporting Somalia on this journey as a steadfast partner. If confirmed, the Ambassador will lead the U.S. Mission to
Somalia, currently based at the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya. As security conditions permit, we look forward to
increasing our diplomatic presence in Somalia and eventually reopening the U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu.
ENDS