On June 7th, Somalia joined nations worldwide in commemorating World Food Safety Day, an annual event aimed at raising awareness about the critical role of food safety in protecting public health, boosting economic growth, and fostering sustainable development.
The event, organized by the Somali government in collaboration with universities and civil society organizations, brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, academic experts, and representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
In his opening remarks, Mohamed Saeed Dalmar, the Director-General of the Ministry of Commerce of the Federal Government of Somalia, emphasized the significant impact of proper food safety practices on the country’s economic prospects. “If we manage food safety effectively, it can lead to increased exports and revenue, as many countries are willing to import our products,” he stated.
Dalmar highlighted that ensuring food safety is crucial for Somalia to tap into international markets and boost its export potential, ultimately contributing to economic growth and job creation within the country.
Mohamed Adan Hirsi, the Senior Advisor of the Somali Organization for Public Sector Professionals (SOPS), elaborated on the event’s objectives and the importance of food safety. “Today, we are commemorating World Food Safety Day. When we discuss food safety, we are not only talking about your health and the health of your family and community but also the health of the nation’s economy and its development prospects,” he emphasized.
Hirsi noted that Somalia joined the global effort to promote food safety in 2009, acknowledging the country’s commitment to adhering to international standards and regulations governing food trade.
Omar Abdullahi Mohamed, the Chancellor of the Somali National University, underscored the vital role of academic institutions in producing skilled professionals and researchers to support the food safety agenda. “Universities in Somalia are committed to developing skilled human resources and generating research-based solutions to address food safety challenges,” he stated.
Abdiqadir, a representative from the Zamzam University, one of Somalia’s leading agricultural institutions, stressed the need for vigilance in producing safe and healthy food products. “When we talk about food safety, it begins with the production process, ensuring that crops and livestock are free from contaminants and diseases before reaching consumers,” he explained.
The event featured panel discussions and expert presentations exploring various aspects of food safety, including regulatory frameworks, agricultural practices, food handling, and consumer awareness. Participants exchanged insights and best practices, emphasizing the collaborative efforts required to establish a robust food safety system in Somalia.
Additionally, the event highlighted the importance of public education and awareness campaigns. Somali National University students organized a mini-exhibition during the week, distributing informative materials and encouraging the public to adopt safe food handling practices.
As Somalia continues to strengthen its food safety measures, the commemoration of World Food Safety Day serves as a reminder of the nation’s commitment to safeguarding public health, promoting economic development, and ensuring a sustainable future for its citizens.
