Mogadishu, Somalia – November 21, 2024 – The Somali Disaster Management Authority (SoDMA) recently convened with Somali religious leaders for a consultative meeting aimed at strengthening their collaboration and enhancing disaster preparedness and response in the country.
The meeting highlighted the role of religious leaders in mitigating disaster risks, promoting resilience, and fostering a self-reliant society. Scholars praised SoDMA’s preventive actions and its commitment to minimizing the impact of disasters in Somalia. They unanimously welcomed SoDMA’s plans and urged the Somali public to take greater responsibility and come to the aid of vulnerable people.
Throughout the meeting, religious leaders committed to conducting awareness campaigns in various social and communal gatherings, addressing impending crises such as droughts, floods, and other risks. They emphasized the importance of public engagement and community-based initiatives in disaster risk reduction.
Key Outcomes of the Meeting:
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Scholars will actively participate in educational campaigns to raise awareness about risk reduction measures and promote self-reliance during potential disasters.
- Integration of Islamic Principles: Islamic principles will be integrated into disaster risk management policies, with religious leaders addressing these topics during Friday prayers, community meetings, and religious events.
- Promotion of Islamic Charitable Values: Encouraging the practice of Zakat and other forms of community support to foster social cohesion and collective resilience.
- Knowledge and Skills Enhancement: Improving scholars’ knowledge and skills in disaster risk reduction and emergency response.
- Environmental Protection Discussions: Promoting discussions on the relationship between Islamic principles and environmental protection to reduce disaster risks.
- Inclusive Approach: Adopting an inclusive approach to disaster risk management that addresses the needs of women, children, and individuals with disabilities.
- Oversight and Accountability: Enhancing oversight and accountability of humanitarian organizations by establishing robust mechanisms to monitor emergency response activities and disaster resilience projects.
- Inter-institutional Coordination: Improving consultations and coordination among various institutions involved in emergency response and disaster risk reduction, including Somali scholars.
- Reduction of Foreign Aid Dependence: Establishing policies to reduce long-term reliance on foreign aid by developing economic infrastructure and strategies to enhance community resilience and self-sufficiency.
The conference concluded with a collective commitment to strengthening community resilience and ensuring a secure future for the Somali people. Parties recognized on the importance of fostering strong connections and collaborating on community awareness programs focused on risk prevention and disaster response.
