Somalia, 22 October 2025 — Somalia’s leaders, academics, and humanitarian experts have urged a shift towards homegrown and research-based solutions to the country’s growing climate and disaster challenges, as the two-day Somali Resilience Conference continues in Mogadishu.
The conference, jointly organized by Mogadishu University and the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA), has drawn more than 250 participants from government institutions, universities and international partners to discuss strategies for strengthening national preparedness against recurring droughts, floods, and conflicts.
Opening the meeting, Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama called for greater self-reliance in disaster response amid declining international aid.
“Somalia alone needs billions of dollars, but there is no money. The world has changed — people are no longer giving; they are selling and buying. Research should show that it is time for us to depend on ourselves,” said the Deputy Prime Minister.
Mogadishu University President Ibrahim Mohamed Mursal underscored the need for sustained research-driven planning in disaster management.
“Disaster management requires research, planning, and continuous coordination. It is not a task done only during crises. Somalia today needs research-driven strategies to reduce vulnerability,” he said.
Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation Mohamed Abdi Hayir urged that research findings from the conference be translated into concrete policy actions.
“We ask the university and the agency to share with us the findings of this conference. We have nothing from the previous one. If you produce new research, please come to us with it,” he said.
SoDMA Commissioner Mahmoud Maalim highlighted that overlapping crises — drought, floods, and conflict — continue to displace millions across the country.
“Nearly three million people have been displaced by droughts, floods, or conflict. Overall, we estimate around six million Somalis need humanitarian assistance. We cannot reach everyone, but we aim to help as many as possible,” he said.
UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Somalia George Conway warned that Somalia faces disproportionate climate threats, compounded by inadequate funding for preventive measures.
“Somalia is facing impacts beyond what many nations experience. Funding for preventive solutions has been unevenly reduced, leading to prolonged crises. This must change,” he said.
Over the two days, 21 research papers will be presented, focusing on ways to unite knowledge, innovation, and collaboration to build a disaster-resilient Somalia. The conference will conclude on Thursday, with its recommendations expected to guide future climate adaptation and national resilience strategies.
Somalia is ranked among the world’s most climate-vulnerable countries. According to the Notre Dame Global Adaptation Initiative (ND-GAIN) Index, the country remains one of the least prepared to cope with climate risks. Recent United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) assessments warn that up to 4.4 million people could face acute food insecurity by early 2025, driven by drought, conflict, and rising food prices.
