MOGADISHU, Somalia, The Minister of Interior, Federal Affairs and Reconciliation of the Federal Government of Somalia, H.E. Ali Yusuf Ali (Xoosh), has officially opened the 3rd Somalia Disaster Resilience Conference (SDRC 2026), jointly organized by the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) and Mogadishu University.

Held over two days, the conference focuses on the theme, “Moving Beyond Recurrent Disasters Towards Sustainable Resilience for a Better Future and Lasting Recovery in Somalia.” It brings together government officials, academics, researchers and humanitarian and development partners to discuss strategies for reducing disaster risks, strengthening preparedness and building long-term resilience.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister Ali Yusuf Ali reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing disasters and reducing the impact of recurring crises. He emphasized the need to move beyond emergency response towards proactive planning, preventive measures and sustainable solutions that strengthen community self-reliance and government capacity.

The Minister also commended the research collaboration between SoDMA and Mogadishu University, highlighting the importance of evidence-based approaches in advancing national disaster management priorities. He called on stakeholders to strengthen their collective efforts towards achieving the country’s disaster risk reduction and resilience objectives.

SoDMA Commissioner Mahmoud Ma’allin Abdulle noted that Somalia has endured recurring disasters for decades, resulting in significant humanitarian challenges and disruptions to livelihoods and development. He stressed that addressing these challenges requires coordinated action, scientific research and effective planning to develop sustainable solutions.

The Commissioner also highlighted the importance of preparedness for drought and the risks associated with Super El Niño. He called for stronger collaboration among government institutions, communities and humanitarian and development partners to reduce disaster impacts, protect vulnerable populations and strengthen the country’s capacity to anticipate and respond to emerging threats.

Mogadishu University President Dr. Ibrahim Mohamed Mursal emphasized the role of research, knowledge and institutional partnerships in addressing recurring disasters. He underscored the need for an inclusive approach that connects academic institutions, government agencies and the private sector to develop evidence-based solutions and reduce community vulnerability.

Dr. Mursal reaffirmed the university’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with government institutions and other stakeholders, ensuring that academic research contributes to effective policies and practical strategies for disaster risk reduction and resilience building.

The two-day conference provides a platform for exchanging knowledge, sharing experiences and strengthening partnerships among institutions involved in disaster management. Discussions are expected to contribute to improved preparedness, early warning, risk reduction and sustainable recovery strategies.

Through this joint initiative, SoDMA and Mogadishu University seek to strengthen the connection between research and disaster management, supporting informed decision-making and efforts to build communities better prepared to withstand future shocks.

The conference underscores the importance of shifting from reactive emergency response towards a proactive, coordinated and sustainable approach to disaster risk management in Somalia.