MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somalia’s Disaster Agency (SoDMA) received an international award at the World Food Forum for advancing early warning and preparedness.
The honor, presented by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), recognized SoDMA’s efforts to improve community resilience against recurring droughts, floods, and climate emergencies.
Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation accepted the award on behalf of Somalia, calling it “a proud moment that highlights national progress in resilience.”
FAO Director-General said the award “acknowledges Somalia’s commitment to protecting lives and livelihoods through stronger early warning systems and disaster-risk reduction measures.”
Officials said SoDMA plays a vital role in the global Early Warning for All initiative, helping communities anticipate and respond before disasters strike.
“This recognition shows that preparedness saves lives,” SoDMA Chairman Mohamud Moalim said. “Our people deserve protection from recurring climate shocks and crises.”
SoDMA pledged to continue building a disaster-resilient society by expanding early-warning networks and promoting local participation in climate adaptation and risk reduction.
Moalim thanked FAO for “constant collaboration and transparent information-sharing on hazards and forecasts that help Somalia act before crises become humanitarian disasters.”
Experts say Somalia remains one of the most climate-vulnerable nations in the Horn of Africa, facing repeated droughts, floods, and food insecurity.
“This award reminds the world that Somali resilience is real,” Abdulle said. “Together, we can turn early warnings into early action.”
