Jowhar, HirShabelle – A high-level humanitarian forum opened on Monday in Jowhar, bringing together national authorities, international partners, and aid organizations in a concerted effort to strengthen Somalia’s emergency response and resilience planning.
The Country Humanitarian Forum, officially inaugurated by HirShabelle State President Ali Gudlawe Hussein, marks a crucial moment for Somalia as communities across the country continue to grapple with the compounded effects of climate shocks, insecurity, and displacement.
Organized by the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA), the meeting drew participation from SoDMA Commissioner Mahamuud Moallim, UN Deputy Special Representative George Conway, and senior representatives from humanitarian and development institutions. The discussions centered on improving coordination between state and federal authorities and aligning humanitarian aid with long-term recovery goals.
In a city often at the heart of Somalia’s humanitarian challenges, the gathering carried both symbolic and strategic weight. Participants emphasized the need for timely, locally driven responses and stronger partnerships to reach communities cut off by floods, drought, or conflict.
The forum also underscored the growing role of federal member states like HirShabelle in managing disaster preparedness and relief delivery, signaling a gradual shift toward decentralized humanitarian coordination. For many in attendance, it was a moment to reflect on how far Somalia has come in building national capacity — and how much remains to be done to protect the most vulnerable.
As the meeting continues, delegates are expected to produce actionable commitments aimed at enhancing early warning systems, improving funding predictability, and supporting the millions of Somalis still facing acute humanitarian needs.
The Jowhar forum stands as a reminder that behind every policy discussion lies a shared human urgency — to ensure no family is left behind when disaster strikes.