SoDMA and FAO Discuss Super El Niño Preparedness and Humanitarian Response

MOGADISHU — The Commissioner of the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA), Mohamud Moallim Abdulle, accompanied by ministers from South West State, has met with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Representative for Somalia, Etienne Peterschmitt, to discuss the humanitarian situation and preparedness for the anticipated Super El Niño .

The meeting focused on the humanitarian situation in the country, preparations for the Super El Niño, and how to deliver aid to communities in areas still facing humanitarian challenges .

Both sides emphasized accelerating prevention and mitigation efforts against flooding, particularly by strengthening river defenses and closing vulnerable points .

Commissioner Abdulle briefed the FAO representative on his recent visit to the Hiiraan region, one of the areas most vulnerable to flooding, and called for unified efforts to protect lives and property .

Strengthening Disaster Preparedness

The meeting between SoDMA and FAO comes amid heightened concerns over the anticipated Super El Niño, which is expected to bring heavy rains and flooding to parts of Somalia. The two agencies have been working to strengthen early warning systems and disaster preparedness measures .

Somalia has launched a World Bank-backed project to bolster disaster preparedness, with tech-driven early warning systems to protect communities from recurring natural disasters. The agency has pushed for tech-driven early warning systems to protect communities from recurring natural disasters.

SoDMA has also coordinated with the Somali Air Force, with both sides agreeing that the Armed Forces should play an important role in emergency response and rescue efforts, including the delivery of relief assistance, information gathering, and ground assessments using helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles.

FAOSWALIM has identified 388 sites along the Shabelle River with flood-related conditions, including breaches, openings, and blockages, underscoring the scale of the risk facing communities in the riverine areas.

FAO has been a key partner in Somalia’s efforts to build climate resilience and improve food security. The agency has supported the launch of climate resilience initiatives, including the ACALS project, which aims to support farmers and pastoralists as the country faces persistent droughts and extreme weather conditions.

Critical Note

The meeting between SoDMA and FAO highlights the continued efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness and humanitarian response in Somalia. The focus on flood prevention measures and Super El Niño preparedness reflects the recognition that proactive measures can save lives and protect livelihoods.

Yet, the effectiveness of these efforts depends on sustained investment and coordination. Somalia continues to face significant challenges in disaster preparedness, including limited resources, weak institutional capacity, and the need for better coordination between federal and state authorities. The international community’s continued support remains essential.

Commissioner Abdulle’s call for unified efforts to protect lives and property is a recognition that disaster response must be a collective endeavor. Without coordinated action and adequate funding, the cycle of disaster and displacement is likely to continue, with vulnerable communities bearing the heaviest burden.