The Somali Disaster Management Authority (SoDMA) has officially launched the Disaster Risk Reduction Process (DRRP) following a three-day meeting in Mogadishu, attended by government ministries, international agencies and non-governmental organizations.
The new process aims to improve Somalia’s capacity to prevent climate change-related disasters by building a unified system that facilitates the prediction, early response and management of risks arising from rainfall, drought, floods and other recurrent disasters, according to a press release from SoDMA.
During the meeting, the participating parties jointly focused on, Creating six technical pillars that will serve as a basis for disaster prevention, Unifying national data for rapid decision-making, Strengthening collaboration between government agencies, the UN, and NGOs, and Ensuring that early warning systems are consistent and operational throughout the country.
SoDMA officials said that this process has been in the works for a long time, and reflects the solidarity and full understanding between the partners involved in dealing with disasters in Somalia.
One of the Directors of SoDMA, Khadar, pointed out that disaster prevention requires a long-term and integrated plan.
“This process represents years of hard work and extensive collaboration. The government is committed to building a formal disaster prevention mechanism, but real success will come from the unity of all stakeholders,” said Khadar, speaking at the forum.
Representatives from DRC, FAO, WFP, and IGAD commended the government for the new initiative, promising to continue providing technical and financial support to strengthen the new mechanism.
The launch of this new mechanism will lead Somalia to: Reduce losses from climate-related disasters; Establish a planning system to identify risks before they occur; Establish strong cooperation between the government and international agencies; and Prepare Somali communities to respond better to emergencies.
