The Commissioner of Somalia’s National Disaster Management Agency (SODMA), Mahamud Maalin Abdulle, on Saturday concluded a high-level conference in Nairobi focusing on disaster early warning systems and strategies to prevent large-scale risks.
The event brought together key officials and stakeholders responsible for disaster management and urban development.
The conference, organized by agencies engaged in disaster management and city development, was attended by representatives from Somalia’s Ministry of Public Works and Ministry of Finance, public works ministers from federal member states, officials from the Banaadir Regional Administration, and mayors from cities participating in the NAGAAD urban development project, as well as the SCRP project funded by the World Bank.
Discussions at the conference centered on ensuring that Somali communities receive timely early warnings for natural disasters before they occur.
Delegates explored ways to leverage modern technology to enhance the collection and dissemination of critical information related to multi-hazard risks, ensuring rapid and effective response mechanisms.
During the event, SoDMA demonstrated its systems for managing the collection and communication of disaster warning data. The agency emphasized the importance of close coordination and collaboration between government institutions and international partners to improve preparedness and reduce vulnerability.
Farah Cabdinuur Ahmed, Director General of the Ministry of Public Works, Reconstruction, and Housing, stressed the need for consistent collaboration between government agencies to minimize the impact of disasters.
SoDMA Chairman Mahamud Macalin Abdulle reiterated the agency’s commitment to ensuring that Somali communities receive timely early warnings, highlighting that these measures are vital for saving lives and protecting property before disasters strike.
The conference concluded with a strong call for continued cooperation among federal, state, and local authorities, as well as international partners, to strengthen Somalia’s disaster preparedness and risk reduction strategies.
