Boosting Somalia’s Disaster Resilience: National Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction

A two-day national conference on disaster risk reduction has commenced in Mogadishu, Somalia, jointly organized by the Somali Disaster Management Authority (SoDMA) and the University of Mogadishu. The conference aims to strengthen collaboration and cooperation among government agencies, international organizations, and experts to enhance the country’s disaster resilience capabilities.
The event was inaugurated by Somalia’s Federal Minister of Interior, Ali Yusuf Ali Xoosh, and attended by ministers of education, water and energy resources, family and human rights development, the SoDMA chairperson, University of Mogadishu leadership, and other dignitaries.
Dr. Abdullahi Qaran, SoDMA’s Director of Research and Training, and the University of Mogadishu’s Chancellor highlighted the conference’s objectives, which include presenting over 20 research papers and fostering scientific discussions among experts and leaders with relevant knowledge and experience.
The conference brings together policymakers, researchers, and academics to share their expertise and knowledge on the most effective ways to create a disaster-resilient society. It is envisioned as an annual event where Somali scholars from around the world can contribute their expertise to address the nation’s challenges.
The ministers of interior, education, family and human rights development commended the organizers and emphasized the importance of research and knowledge-based approaches to mitigate the impacts of disasters that have historically caused loss of life and property in Somalia.
SoDMA’s Chairperson, Mahmoud Ali Abdullahi, stressed the significance of the conference, stating that it aims to present research and innovative solutions from Somali scholars to enhance disaster resilience and reduce the risks posed by disasters in the country.
The conference is a crucial step toward fostering a disaster-resilient society in Somalia, leveraging scientific knowledge and collaboration among stakeholders to address the challenges posed by natural and man-made disasters effectively.