MOGADISHU, Somalia – The Chinese government has emerged as the first international entity to respond to Somalia’s emergency drought appeal, contributing $1 million during a significant diplomatic visit to the Somalia Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) on Monday.
Ambassador Wang Yu officially presented the financial assistance to enhance the nation’s capabilities in addressing the drought crisis.
The important gathering, presided over by SoDMA Commissioner Mahamuud Moalim Abdulle, served not only as a donation ceremony but also as a strategic dialogue regarding the nation’s challenging climate situation.
This visit marked the initial occasion of the Chinese Ambassador touring the agency’s headquarters, indicating strengthened diplomatic and operational ties between China and Somalia.
The critical nature of this contribution was highlighted through a comprehensive briefing by Mr. Khadar, Director of the National Multi-Hazard Early Warning Center.
Employing up-to-date mapping technologies and weather information, Khadar demonstrated the extreme conditions of the ongoing dry spell, which has affected large portions of the nation.
The figures presented revealed alarming rainfall deficiencies. Agricultural success and harvest viability typically need at least 45 millimeters of precipitation, yet recent recordings show less than 10 millimeters throughout the country.
This significant shortfall has devastated farming potential and risks pushing millions toward food scarcity.
“The arid conditions and minimal rainfall are impacting not just our nation but the entire East African region,” Khadar explained while presenting maps that identified migration routes where communities are relocating to find water and grazing land.
In his address, Amb. Yu stated that this assistance reflects China’s foreign policy approach.
“I am present today to provide our support during this challenging period. The drought situation has resulted in widespread displacement and hardship across the nation,” Amb. Yu remarked.
“Following the principle of sincerity and good faith championed by President Xi Jinping, we will fulfill our responsibilities,” he added.
The Ambassador disclosed that before visiting SoDMA, he had convened with Somalia’s Prime Minister to explore high-level cooperation on addressing climate-related emergencies.
He voiced his confidence in SoDMA’s operational effectiveness, saying, “I am confident that SoDMA has the capability and will diligently work to guide the nation through these challenging times toward improved conditions.”
Although this constituted the Ambassador’s first visit to the facility, SoDMA’s connection with Chinese organizations extends back several years. The Ambassador pointed to continuous capacity building, mentioning that multiple SoDMA personnel had received specialized disaster management education in China during the current year.
“You are always encouraged to participate in forthcoming exchange initiatives,” the Ambassador told the personnel, emphasizing Beijing’s dedication to knowledge sharing in addition to monetary assistance.
Commissioner Abdulle received the contribution as a crucial support. In his comments, he described China as a “friendly nation” that has consistently translated statements into meaningful actions.
“This is the first entity to respond to our urgent call,” the SoDMA Commissioner Moalim stated, referencing the agency’s recent warnings about insufficient rainfall.
“We appreciate the friendly nation of China for their swift reaction to the drought crisis. They have been involved in both developmental and relief activities within our country,” he added.
The Commissioner elaborated that Chinese assistance encompasses more than financial contributions.
He mentioned China’s substantial involvement in building infrastructure, particularly the creation of SoDMA regional facilities and storage facilities, which are vital for strategic positioning of emergency materials.
As the Horn of Africa contends with increasingly unpredictable weather phenomena, the cooperation between SoDMA and China demonstrates a model for how bilateral connections can advance from conventional diplomatic relations to technical and humanitarian partnerships.
“With the $1 million now allocated, the organization will promptly direct resound additional support is anticipated as we collectively address this challenge,” the SoDMA chief concluded.
