MOGADISHU — The Commissioner of the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA), Mr. Mahamuud Moallim Abdulle, led two significant initiatives in Mogadishu this week aimed at strengthening the nation’s disaster response framework through inclusive strategies and international partnerships.
Empowering Women in Crisis Response
On Thursday, the Commissioner officially launched a high-level National Consultation forum at the Peace Hotel. The conference, organized in close collaboration with UN Women, aims to enhance the nation’s emergency response capabilities for droughts with a strategic emphasis on empowering women-led organizations.
Discussions centered on shifting the role of women from beneficiaries to principal decision-makers in the planning and delivery of humanitarian aid.
“Active and meaningful involvement of women constitutes a fundamental pillar for attaining sustainable and equitable relief,” Commissioner Mahamuud stated. He highlighted that because women and children bear disproportionate impacts from climate shocks, female leadership is crucial for ensuring response strategies address the specific needs of vulnerable populations.
Strengthening Ties with Egypt
Separately, Commissioner Mahamuud held a strategic discussion with the Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Somalia, H.E. Mohamed Salah Hassan. The meeting focused on reinforcing bilateral ties and improving national capabilities for disaster prevention.
Ambassador Hassan reiterated Cairo’s steadfast commitment to supporting the Somali people, stating that Egypt views itself as a long-term partner in regional stability.
Technical Cooperation Agreement
A key outcome of the meeting was an agreement to implement extensive training programs for SoDMA personnel. Egyptian specialists will be deployed to offer technical training in meteorology, strategic risk assessment, and advanced disaster management procedures.
Commissioner Mahamuud expressed appreciation for the support, noting that incorporating Egyptian expertise will modernize the agency’s methods for forecasting and addressing environmental threats.
